FIFA is proceeding with plans to review the economic benefits of expanding the World Cup to 64 teams from 2030, despite opposition from several major football confederations. The organization has initiated a tender process to engage research companies for this assessment, which is set to occur on an accelerated timeline.
This development comes amid significant criticism regarding FIFA’s broader proposals to sell stakes in its competitions, including the World Cup, to private investors. UEFA and Concacaf have voiced strong opposition, with UEFA threatening to boycott all FIFA competitions if these plans are not abandoned. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has also joined this stance, expressing solidarity with its counterparts and calling for an urgent review of FIFA’s governance.
Growing Opposition to Privatization Plans
The resistance to FIFA’s privatization plans has intensified, with reports indicating that 143 of FIFA’s 211 member associations are now against the proposals. This widespread backlash has been compared to the opposition faced by the European Super League in 2021, though on a global scale. In response to the criticism, FIFA released a statement asserting that “nobody is selling football” and that such an action is not something the organization would ever consider.
Despite FIFA’s assurances, the controversy has led to the resignation of Carlos Cordeiro, a senior advisor to Gianni Infantino. Cordeiro described the privatization plan as “a bad deal for football” and for the long-term future of the game. He stated that he had no involvement in the proposal and unequivocally opposed it.
The UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has also weighed in, calling Infantino “the wrong man” to lead FIFA due to these controversial proposals. Burnham’s criticism highlights the political pressure mounting on the organization’s leadership.
Consultation Process and Future Implications
FIFA maintains that a consultation process was planned to allow member associations to express their views based on facts, and that this process was disrupted by what it termed “incorrect media reports.” The organization stated its commitment to an open and democratic consultation, aiming to ensure that all FIFA Member Associations have the opportunity to take meaningful ownership of the commercial opportunities in football within their respective countries.
Opponents of the plan, however, fear that commercial imperatives could lead FIFA to organize more frequent and larger tournaments, potentially encroaching further on domestic football schedules. The unified and unequivocal opposition from confederations like UEFA suggests a significant challenge to FIFA’s current direction. The AFC, previously a supporter of Infantino, has also shifted its position, advocating for institutional reform and transparent governance within FIFA.
The ongoing situation raises questions about the future leadership of FIFA, especially given that Infantino was reportedly set to be reelected unopposed in March, with over 200 member associations having sent formal letters of support just weeks prior to the current controversy.
In related news, Chelsea has been fined £10m and received a suspended two-window transfer ban for admitting breaches of agent rules.
Meanwhile, tributes have been paid to former Milan and Italy defender Franco Baresi, who passed away at the age of 66. His former club, AC Milan, stated that his example and integrity will be forever etched into the club’s DNA, alongside his iconic No 6 shirt.
In other transfer news, John Stones has joined Inter on a two-year deal in Milan, expressing his hunger to win again and his openness to learning new aspects of football in a new league. Real Madrid has signed striker Carlos Espí from Levante for €25m.
The Norwegian Football Federation president, Lise Klaveness, revealed that the word “blackmail” was used during a UEFA meeting where member associations voted 55-0 in favor of a boycott threat regarding FIFA’s plans.
Newcastle has traveled to Murcia for their pre-season training camp, though without Arsenal target Bruno Guimarães. Incoming manager Matthias Jaissle is still finalizing his move from Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia.
On the international coaching front, Santi Denia has taken over as the new coach for Czechia, while Hugo Broos is departing his role as South Africa manager. Arne Slot will not be succeeding Ronald Koeman as the Netherlands boss.
Finally, Roger Schmidt has assumed the role of head of global football for Red Bull, a position previously held by Jürgen Klopp.
Source: theguardian.com
Mason Reed
Sports reporter covering football, basketball and international competitions.