FIFA Defends Private Investment Plan as UEFA Threatens World Cup Boycott

ZURICH, Switzerland — FIFA has insisted that “nobody is selling football” as it defended its controversial proposal to allow private investment in its competitions, despite growing opposition from continental football bodies led by UEFA.

In a statement released on Friday, world football’s governing body said it would press ahead with consultations on the proposal, arguing that recent media reports had misrepresented the initiative.

“We respect the feedback and concern aired in public and reaffirm our commitment to an open and democratic consultation,” FIFA said.

“We will proceed with this consultation process to ensure that each Member Association has the ability to express its vote based on facts.”

The governing body added: “Nobody is selling football. This is not something FIFA would ever entertain.”

The statement came a day after UEFA voted to boycott future FIFA World Cups if the proposal proceeds.

Concacaf, which governs football across North and Central America and the Caribbean, also rejected the proposal, with its 41 member associations voicing opposition during consultations.

The growing resistance presents a significant challenge for FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who would require the support of at least 106 of FIFA’s 211 member associations for the proposal to pass.

UEFA and Concacaf together account for 96 votes, meaning widespread opposition from the two confederations could substantially complicate efforts to secure the required majority.

The investment proposal has sparked debate over the future governance of global football, with critics warning that opening FIFA competitions to private investors could commercialise the sport further and weaken the influence of member associations.

FIFA, however, maintains that the consultation process remains ongoing and has urged member associations to assess the proposal based on its official details rather than speculation.