Wenger backs decision to scrap Infantino’s controversial World Cup proposal

Arsène Wenger, FIFA's Chief of Global Football Development, has publicly backed the decision to abandon President Gianni Infantino's contentious proposal to sell stakes in the World Cup.

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The decision to withdraw the project was absolutely necessary and beyond question, because I firmly believe in an independent FIFA that serves our game with commitment, transparency and integrity.

Wenger described the withdrawal of the plan, which involved selling a 20 percent stake in the World Cup to private equity investors through FIFA Forward Enterprise, as "absolutely necessary and beyond question." He emphasized his belief in an independent FIFA that operates with commitment, transparency, and integrity.

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At FIFA, I am the Chief of Global Football Development. Together with my team, I oversee the data analysis of the game, the FIFA online training centre, the development of youth education through 60 academies across 60 countries where they are most needed, and youth competitions around the world.

The proposal had drawn widespread criticism from various football bodies. UEFA, European football's governing body, had even threatened a boycott of FIFA competitions if Infantino proceeded. Three continental confederations had also rejected the scheme, ultimately forcing Infantino to retract the divisive idea.

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I was not involved in this strategic plan and first became aware of the project through media reports.

Wenger, who was appointed in 2019, stated that he was not involved in the strategic plan and only became aware of it through media reports. His comments align with those of FIFA's Chief Operating Officer, Kevin Lamour, who recently said staff had been "deceived" by Infantino. Several European associations have since withdrawn their support for Infantino ahead of his re-election bid.

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staff at the global governing body had been “deceived” by Infantino.