Europe’s football governing body, UEFA, has warned it could boycott the 2030 FIFA World Cup if FIFA proceeds with plans to sell a stake in its competitions to private investors.
The decision followed an emergency meeting involving all 55 UEFA member associations, where leaders unanimously rejected the proposal backed by FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
Infantino has reportedly given national football associations until September 19 to approve the plan, which includes financial incentives for those who support it.
UEFA, however, strongly opposed the move, insisting that the World Cup must remain a sporting institution rather than a commercial asset.
In a statement, UEFA said its members would not take part in FIFA competitions if the proposal goes ahead, describing the plan as “irresponsible” and a threat to the integrity of football.
The body argued that allowing private investors into FIFA competitions would shift decision-making away from the interests of the sport and toward profit-driven motives.
UEFA also criticized the lack of consultation, saying the proposal was developed without meaningful input from key stakeholders in global football.
The standoff raises the possibility of a major split in world football, with Europe, home to many of the sport’s biggest teams and players, potentially absent from future FIFA tournaments if no agreement is reached.
