FIFA backs down: World Cup share sale plan withdrawn after Confederation 'blockade'

FIFA has abandoned its controversial plan to sell World Cup commercial rights to private investors, just four days after its unveiling. FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced the definitive withdrawal of the proposal following a significant backlash from the global football community.

The strongest opposition came from UEFA, which reportedly warned of boycotting FIFA events if the plan moved forward. National federations aligned with UEFA, and other confederations including CONCACAF and the Asian Confederation, also expressed negative stances. The internal turmoil within FIFA was also evident, with senior advisor Carlos Cordeiro departing his position due to disagreements with the initiative.

Faced with unprecedented resistance, Infantino conceded that the plan, intended to boost football development, had instead created significant division among stakeholders. "After listening carefully to all the opinions, it became clear that the program has created divisions of such a nature that, regardless of the level of support, they no longer serve the original objective," Infantino stated.

He emphasized that FIFA's goal has always been unity and improvement. "Our purpose has always been – and will always be – unity and improvement. Therefore, this proposal will not proceed." Infantino plans to initiate a new round of consultations with confederations, member federations, and other stakeholders in the coming days and weeks to foster common ground for strengthening global football, particularly in regions most in need of support, without disrupting the sport's unity.

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After listening carefully to all the opinions, it became clear that the program has created divisions of such a nature that, regardless of the level of support, they no longer serve the original objective. Our purpose has always been – and will always be – unity and improvement. Therefore, this proposal will not proceed.