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Macron played key role blocking FIFA's World Cup commercial rights plan, L'Equipe reports
๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ท Greece /Sports

Macron played key role blocking FIFA's World Cup commercial rights plan, L'Equipe reports

From Ta Nea · () Greek

Translated from Greek, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • French President Emmanuel Macron played a behind-the-scenes role in blocking FIFA's plan to sell commercial rights for its tournaments, including the World Cup.
  • Macron contacted football officials, including UEFA President Aleksander ฤŒeferin and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, to advocate for unity and prevent division in global football.
  • The Elysรฉe Palace also raised concerns about the proposal's substance, noting FIFA's existing financial strength and suggesting resources could support weaker federations without private investors.

French President Emmanuel Macron actively worked behind the scenes to thwart FIFA's plan to sell a stake in its commercial rights, a move that could have significantly impacted global football. While Macron avoided public statements, he engaged in crucial discussions with key figures in the sport.

According to L'Equipe, Macron's office stated that the President was "actively working on this, just as he clearly opposed the European Super League plan." He reportedly contacted football leaders, including UEFA President Aleksander ฤŒeferin and French Football Federation President Philippe Diallo, to support unity and prevent a rift between confederations. He also spoke with African Confederation President Patrice Motsepe and FIFA President Gianni Infantino before a UEFA meeting.

The President of the Republic is actively working on this. Just as he clearly opposed the European Super League plan.

โ€” A collaborator of the French PresidentDescribing Macron's behind-the-scenes efforts to block FIFA's commercial rights plan.

During his call with Infantino, Macron emphasized the priorities of "unity in global football" and "strengthening international solidarity." The French presidency also questioned the proposal's necessity, pointing out FIFA's substantial financial resources, estimated at $15 billion in World Cup revenue and $5 billion in available capital. They suggested these funds could better support financially weaker football federations instead of bringing in private investors.

France conveyed its clear message of support for Aleksander ฤŒeferin, signaling a united front against FIFA's controversial plan. The move highlights Macron's engagement in international sports governance and his administration's stance on maintaining the integrity and equitable distribution of resources within the global football landscape.

France fully supports Aleksander ฤŒeferin.

โ€” A close collaborator of MacronConveying France's clear message of support to the UEFA president.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Ta Nea in Greek. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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