Premier League chief slams FIFA: 'It has self-destructed'

Richard Masters, the executive chairman of the Premier League, has strongly criticized FIFA for its recent attempt to sell stakes in the World Cup to private entities, asserting that the organization has "self-destructed."

Speaking to the BBC just days before the start of the 2026-27 Premier League season, Masters described FIFA's current situation as a self-inflicted problem. He reiterated his view that FIFA, as a non-profit organization, should not entertain the idea of selling World Cup shares, calling it a "bad idea." Masters also backed the English FA's stance against FIFA President Gianni Infantino, noting that the FA has withdrawn its support, a move also mirrored by Wales, Ireland, and Scotland.

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I don't think FIFA should contemplate selling shares of the World Cup. They are a non-profit organization. It's a bad idea and the English federation has taken the right position regarding Gianni Infantino.

Masters expressed a desire for a unifying candidate to challenge Infantino's bid for re-election. Currently, no other candidates have formally announced their intention to run for the FIFA presidency, with the deadline for submissions set for November 18. Masters suggested that any challenger should prioritize reforming FIFA, including the presidential role and its relationship with the organization's structures.

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He has pressed the 'self-destruction' button.