UEFA chief: We've had problems with FIFA for 100 years

A deep rift has emerged between European football's governing body, UEFA, and world football's governing body, FIFA, with UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin expressing long-standing frustrations.

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We have had problems with this organization (Fifa) for a hundred years now.

Ceferin revealed he has not communicated with FIFA President Gianni Infantino since controversial plans to sell stakes in the World Cup to private equity firms were leaked. "We have had problems with this organization (FIFA) for a hundred years now," Ceferin declared in an interview for the podcast "The Rest Is Politics." He added that FIFA's leadership has since withdrawn the plans, but UEFA remains skeptical about Infantino's long-term intentions.

UEFA had previously withdrawn its support for Infantino's FIFA presidency and threatened a boycott of all future FIFA tournaments. This threat remains active, as UEFA is not convinced Infantino will not revive the privatization proposals later. Ceferin believes Infantino should recognize his loss of support from the football world, not just political backing.

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It's not just about political support from those who vote, but support from the football world itself. From the fans, the players, former players and coaches.

Infantino is still seeking re-election at FIFA's congress in the spring. However, Ceferin suggested that another candidate might emerge to challenge him. Support for Infantino has waned not only from UEFA but also from CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation. Reports suggest Infantino angered many federations by attempting to rally support through promises of development funds, despite being asked to stay away from a meeting.

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I have heard that they (Fifa) are now trying to spread the image that 'arrogant Europe is against us'. That we have enough money but that he (Infantino) helps the small and poor.