UEFA has reacted strongly to a report indicating that FIFA President Gianni Infantino is considering selling stakes in the World Cup to private investors, a move that could potentially generate tens of millions of pounds for him.
On Tuesday, FIFA announced in a press release its intention to increase funding for football development to over $10 billion, pending approval from FIFA Member Associations.
The football governing body asserted that this development, if sanctioned, would result in enhanced funding for football development accessible to all 211 FIFA Member Associations (MAs).
Meanwhile, a report from The Times suggested that Infantino is contemplating the sale of stakes in the World Cup, which could lead to the establishment of a company to oversee FIFA.
The report also mentioned that individuals associated with the Donald Trump administration have been consulted regarding this initiative.
In response to The Times article, UEFA stated, “This crosses a line that football’s governing institutions should never cross. UEFA takes this matter very seriously, and so should every National Football Association.
“Every stakeholder—leagues, clubs, players, supporters, governments, and anyone invested in the future of the game—should also take this seriously.
“The essence and governance of football are not commodities to be traded, particularly without transparency regarding who benefits financially. None of us own football; it is not FIFA’s to sell.”
The Times also reported that Infantino is expected to assume the role of commissioner for the company once his term as FIFA president concludes.