UEFA set to end FIFA boycott threat after receiving assurances on investor plan

European football's governing body, UEFA, is reportedly set to withdraw its threat of boycotting FIFA competitions. This decision comes after UEFA received assurances that FIFA President Gianni Infantino's controversial plan to sell off commercial rights for the World Cup will not be pursued further.

The withdrawal of the boycott threat is expected to be formalized during a meeting of UEFA's member federations in Monaco. The person familiar with the matter, speaking on condition of anonymity, told The Associated Press that the agenda for the closed-door meeting would likely include ending the boycott stance.

This development is significant as it clears the way for six European teams to continue their preparations for the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup, scheduled to begin on September 5 in Poland. The tournament had risked becoming a focal point for European football's opposition to Infantino's investor plan, which involved a $20 billion subsidiary to control FIFA's commercial rights.

FIFA welcomed the news, stating its belief in football's power to unite. The proposed spinoff, initially backed by investors including Joshua Kushner, faced widespread backlash, including from UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation, and CONCACAF. Infantino ultimately dropped the proposal after just four days amid the fierce criticism. UEFA had previously expressed a lack of confidence in Infantino's leadership, signaling intentions to challenge his re-election.

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strongly believes that football has the power to unite, even in challenging circumstances, and looks forward to welcoming all teams and players to Poland