UEFA boycott: Reactions as England, Germany, Norway reject FIFA World Cup plans

Europe's major football associations have united behind UEFA's stance, threatening a boycott of FIFA competitions if the global governing body proceeds with plans to sell a stake in the World Cup's commercial rights to private investors. This strong reaction follows UEFA's unanimous vote to oppose FIFA's controversial proposal.

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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.

England's Football Association declared its "full support" for UEFA, stating the World Cup "belongs to football and always will." Scotland's Football Association echoed these sentiments, criticizing FIFA for a lack of consultation and poor governance. The Scottish FA Board "agrees unequivocally with the concerns raised by all members over the manner in which these proposals have been issued, and the deadline set, without a full consultation process or consideration to good governance."

Germany also voiced strong opposition. Alexander Wehrle, chief executive of Bundesliga side VfB Stuttgart, stated, "A line has once again been crossed and he (Gianni Infantino) wants to sell off football." He added, "I don’t believe an association’s overriding principle should be profit maximisation. Something has gone off track here, and it has to stop."

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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 the deadline set, without a full consultation process or consideration to good governance.

Sweden's Football Association emphasized that proposals with such significant implications for international football require an open, transparent, and consultative process. Norwegian FA president Lise Klaveness warned that member associations are prepared to withdraw from FIFA competitions if the proposal moves forward. "The message from Norway and UEFA is clear: if this project continues, we will withdraw from FIFA competitions," she stated.

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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 backlash has extended beyond football administrators. British Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy described UEFA's position as "a principled decision," asserting that football should belong to supporters, not private investors.

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A line has once again been crossed and he (Gianni Infantino) wants to sell off football. I don’t believe an association’s overriding principle should be profit maximisation. Something has gone off track here, and it has to stop.