Jakarta, ThedailyID — At least 90 FIFA member associations have reportedly opposed FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s proposal to sell stakes in the FIFA World Cup and other FIFA competitions to private investors.
The reported opposition comes from two major confederations, UEFA and CONCACAF, representing nearly half of FIFA’s 211 member associations.
According to Sky Sports, all 55 UEFA member associations unanimously rejected the proposal. UEFA has emerged as the strongest critic of the plan, raising concerns that Infantino could later become chairman or hold another leadership role in a private company linked to the World Cup after his FIFA presidency ends in 2031.
CONCACAF has also voiced strong resistance. Sky Sports reported that a majority of its 41 member associations no longer support Infantino or have lost confidence in his leadership.
“A source said the majority of CONCACAF’s 41 members have lost confidence in Infantino, and that sentiment was reflected during an emergency online meeting,” Sky Sports reported.
The opposition now totals at least 90 associations, representing a significant portion of FIFA’s global membership.
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has also expressed concern over the proposal. In a statement cited by Reuters, AFC said any initiative that could reshape football’s commercial future should follow principles of transparency, good governance, and meaningful consultation.
The confederation added that decisions with major financial implications should involve confederations, member associations, and other stakeholders before reaching FIFA’s decision-making bodies.
