UEFA maintains FIFA boycott threat, demands Infantino step down

European football's governing body, UEFA, remains steadfast in its demand for FIFA President Gianni Infantino to step aside, maintaining its threat to boycott international competitions. UEFA stated that the conditions set for rescinding a potential boycott have not been fulfilled, signaling a deep rift between the organizations.

The core of the dispute lies in Infantino's controversial plan to corporatize the World Cup and sell a 20% stake to private investors. UEFA has made its stance clear: plans to sell off portions of major tournaments must be withdrawn, and assurances must be provided that such commercial ventures will not be attempted again. According to UEFA, these crucial conditions have not been met, leaving the door open for a boycott.

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UEFA's member associations made the conditions for the decision not to participate in FIFA competitions extremely clear. Firstly, the plans to sell stakes in major competitions had to be withdrawn, and secondly, guarantees had to be given that such an attempt would never be made again. These conditions have not been met.

UEFA previously declared it had lost confidence in Infantino's presidency. The organization dismissed FIFA's recent show of support for Infantino following an emergency meeting, stating that endorsements from individuals whose careers depend on the FIFA president's favor do not alter UEFA's position. This firm stance underscores UEFA's deep-seated concerns about FIFA's governance and commercial strategies under Infantino's leadership.

The potential boycott could impact the upcoming FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup, scheduled to begin in Poland on September 5. If an agreement between UEFA and FIFA is not reached before then, this tournament could become the first FIFA event targeted by a UEFA boycott, escalating the conflict between the two powerful football organizations.

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UEFA made it absolutely clear in its statement on Saturday that it has lost confidence in Gianni Infantino's presidency. This position remains unchanged. Yesterday's announcement that some people working under the FIFA president – whose careers depend on his favor – agree with him changes nothing.