UEFA says it has lost confidence in FIFA’s leadership under President Gianni Infantino after FIFA abandons a proposed plan to bring private investment into the commercial rights surrounding the World Cup. Multiple outlets report that UEFA issued a statement stating that “the current FIFA leadership” has lost UEFA’s confidence and that of other parts of the football community.
The decision comes in the wake of backlash against FIFA’s earlier proposal, which was aimed at raising funds by selling stakes in a new structure that would hold and manage FIFA commercial activities, including the World Cup. Reuters coverage cited by Al-Monitor describes the plan as involving the sale of about a 20% stake to private investors, with potential proceeds described as up to about $4.2 billion, after concerns from regional confederations that they were not adequately consulted.
Several reports also say UEFA criticizes Infantino for not delivering on promises made at his election, including commitments related to transparency and FIFA funding remaining with member associations. While FIFA has withdrawn the investment plan, UEFA and some other confederations continue to question FIFA’s governance and leadership.
