ไทย
English
中國人
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has sent a letter to all national associations dangling a $10 billion total package if they agree to his plan to essentially sell stakes in future World Cups to private investors, according to multiple reports. Rejecting these terms within the next six weeks would result in funding of roughly a quarter of that amount.
It has been a turbulent few hours for the head of world soccer's governing body. After his plan to establish a subsidiary company that would actively pursue private investors to purchase between 20 and 30% of shares in FIFA's major tournaments going forward was broken by The Times, Infantino was forced to oversee a rushed 1,403-word official statement that shed little light on this monumental scheme.
The proposal drew a wave of negative reactions—the phrase "soccer's nuclear bomb" was circulated by numerous outlets—and FIFA has offered $40 million to each national association should they agree to the plan before the fast-approaching deadline of Sept. 19.
"The decision on whether or not to proceed with this proposal belongs entirely to you," a letter from Infantino read, as quoted by The Times. "Should you wish to proceed this $10 billion package will become available as of Jan. 1, 2027, ushering in the next phase of our journey together.
"Should you wish to retain the status quo and reject this proposal we still have our planned expansion of the Forward programme [development money] of $2.7billion as previously presented.
"In total for the upcoming cycle starting as of Jan. 1, 2027 each member association will have the possibility of access up to $40 million per member association under this proposal."
For the second time this week alone, Infantino has faced accusations of "bribery."
International Response to World Cup Sale Plan
It remains to be seen how many national associations will be swayed by the prospect of $40 million. However, the majority appear united in their bewilderment.
A statement from England's FA reflected the sentiment of many when they disclosed: "We were completely unaware of this proposal and have no substantive details, including what the proposition actually is and what conditions are attached. Based on the limited information, we are deeply concerned about the lack of process and governance to get to this point, and the apparent substance and principles involved."
France's soccer federation president Philippe Diallo paused from his praise of Zinedine Zidane to confirm that he too had only learned of this plan through the media.
Concacaf, the federation representing North, Central America and Caribbean associations, cautioned: "We are deeply concerned by the lack of due process. We share the disappointment of many within our region and the game that this level of detail has been designed and shared publicly before any discussion with the relevant governance bodies and stakeholders has taken place."
"Every decision we make must be guided by good governance, robust processes and long-term stewardship," a statement added.
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) also weighed in, describing itself as "disappointed" at the manner in which this information had emerged.
UEFA, European soccer's governing body, unsurprisingly had the sharpest reaction. After openly expressing fury at the plan which has "crossed a line," reports indicated the possibility of even more drastic action.
Threat of World Cup 'Boycott' Raised
Several unnamed European nations are believed to be weighing up a boycott of future World Cup editions, Sky News has reported.
UEFA has consistently positioned itself as the counterpoint to FIFA, eagerly seizing on any unflattering development throughout the 2026 World Cup. Beyond pointed statements, there is now the prospect of tangible action.
Enable functional cookies to see this feature.
The 55 member associations of UEFA are expected to convene a virtual meeting this week to discuss Infantino's plan and determine the best course of response. There has not been a continental boycott of the men's World Cup since African nations collectively refused to participate in the 1966 tournament after being denied a single guaranteed qualification spot.
Given the influence European soccer holds over the global game, this threat would represent a significant blow to the competition—three of the four semifinalists from 2026 were European, while five of the seven champions over the last 75 years have hailed from the continent.