UEFA’s 55 member associations have unanimously agreed to boycott FIFA competitions if world football’s governing body proceeds with plans to sell stakes in its major tournaments to private investors.

The decision was reached at an emergency UEFA meeting convened to discuss FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s proposal to create a commercial subsidiary that would manage competitions such as the FIFA World Cup, Women’s World Cup and Club World Cup.

Under the proposal, external investors would be able to purchase minority stakes in the new commercial entity. Infantino has reportedly told FIFA’s 211 member associations they could receive up to US$40 million if they support the plan, with an initial payment of US$20 million available to associations that approve the proposal by September 19.

In a statement following the meeting, UEFA said its 55 member associations “stand as one” and “unanimously and unequivocally reject FIFA’s proposal to transfer ownership interests in the World Cup and other FIFA competitions to private investors.”

“The World Cup cannot be treated as an investment product. It is one of football’s greatest sporting legacies. No part of it should ever be surrendered to private investors. The World Cup is not for sale,” the statement said.

The proposed boycott would cover all FIFA competitions, including the men’s and women’s World Cups and the Club World Cup, but would only come into effect if FIFA member associations approve the investment proposal at a future vote. (Newswire)

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