21:52 - 28.07.2026

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July 28, Fineko/abc.az. UEFA has issued a severe backlash against FIFA President Gianni Infantino's proposal to sell equity stakes in the World Cup to private investors.

According to a report by the British newspaper The Times, Infantino has been holding talks with potential investors close to US political and business circles. The plan entails establishing a new corporate entity to commercialize and manage FIFA's premier tournaments, including the Men's and Women's World Cups as well as the Club World Cup. Under the scheme, each of FIFA's 211 member associations would receive a stake valued at approximately $20 million, which they could retain or sell for revenue. Sources also claim Infantino plans to transition into leading this new entity as a "commissioner" after completing his final term as FIFA president.

In a firmly worded statement, UEFA declared: "This crosses a line that football’s governing bodies must never cross. UEFA takes this extremely seriously, as do national associations, leagues, clubs, players, and fans. The soul and governance of football are not assets to be bought and sold, especially with zero transparency over who benefits financially. None of us owns football. This is not something FIFA can sell."