UEFA threatens FIFA boycott over unmet conditions

The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) is maintaining its threat of boycotting FIFA tournaments, even after FIFA President Gianni Infantino retracted his controversial proposal to sell 20% of World Cup commercial rights to investors. UEFA stated that its conditions for ending the boycott have not been met, implying a need for guarantees against similar future proposals.

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These conditions have not been met.

Despite the withdrawal of the plans, UEFA remains unconvinced. The European football body reiterated its two key demands: the retraction of the sales plans and assurances that such proposals will never be considered again. "These conditions have not been met," UEFA told Sky News, suggesting the lack of preventative measures against future crises is the sticking point.

Following an emergency meeting, FIFA leadership and Infantino offered apologies to member federations for the handling of the investment plan. However, UEFA dismissed these apologies, noting that the support came from FIFA employees whose careers depend on Infantino. The English Football Association (FA) and CONMEBOL, the South American football confederation, have also formally withdrawn their confidence in Infantino, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and respect for rules.

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The announcement yesterday that some people who are in the service of the FIFA president (and whose careers depend on his blessing) agree with him changes nothing.

Speculation is mounting about whether critical federations will rally to find a challenger for Infantino's presidency in the March elections. Victor Montagliani, president of CONCACAF, is mentioned as a potential candidate. Alternatively, a motion of no confidence could be initiated, requiring 43 FIFA members to call an extraordinary congress within three months.

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Dialogue, respect for the rules and constructive exchange are crucial. When these principles are ignored, football loses and we all lose.