Reaction to UEFA vote to boycott World Cup over FIFA stake sale plans

UEFA and its 55 member nations have united in a strong stance against FIFA's controversial plan to sell a stake in the World Cup to external investors, voting to boycott all FIFA tournaments. This unprecedented move signals deep dissatisfaction with the global football governing body's direction and decision-making processes.

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We stand shoulder to shoulder with our European colleagues and fully support the collective view. We oppose FIFA’s plans - the FIFA World Cup belongs to football and always will.

European football associations have voiced their opposition unequivocally. The English FA stated, "We stand shoulder to shoulder with our European colleagues and fully support the collective view. We oppose FIFA’s plans - the FIFA World Cup belongs to football and always will." Similarly, the Scottish FA Board agreed with concerns over the "manner in which these proposals have been issued, and deadline set, without a full consultation process or consideration to good governance."

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The Scottish FA Board agrees unequivocally with the concerns raised by all members over the manner in which these proposals have been issued, and deadline set, without a full consultation process or consideration to good governance.

Leaders from national federations expressed alarm at the potential commercialization of the sport. Jesper Moeller, Chairman of the Danish FA, declared, "It is out of the question to accede to an agreement of this nature, where we invite private investors into the heart of FIFA." Alexander Wehrle, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the German FA's economic subsidiary, questioned FIFA President Gianni Infantino's understanding of football's essence, stating, "I have serious doubts about that." He argued that an association's primary principle should not be profit maximization.

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It is out of the question to accede to an agreement of this nature, where we invite private investors into the heart of FIFA. We will therefore support all necessary measures to stop this project.

The sentiment was echoed by the Swedish and Norwegian FAs, highlighting a lack of transparency and consultation. "There has been no transparency, involvement, or debate. The message from Norway and UEFA is clear: if this project continues, we will withdraw from FIFA competitions," warned Norwegian FA Chief Lise Klaveness. British Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy affirmed support for the boycott, stating, "Football belongs to the fans, not billionaire investors." Politician Nigel Farage added, "UEFA are right to take a stand and Gianni Infantino must resign."

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A line has once again been crossed and that he (FIFA President Gianni Infantino) wants to sell off football.