Europe Considers World Cup Boycott Over Infantino's New Plan

Reports from "The Times" indicating FIFA's intention to sell stakes in its tournaments, including the World Cup, to private investors, have sparked widespread outrage. UEFA has taken a strong stance even before the global football governing body has confirmed its plans. The European football authority accused FIFA of "trying to sell the soul of football."

FIFA later confirmed the information and attempted to defend its plans by promising that any potential revenue would be distributed among the organization's 211 members. More concerning was the admission from Gianni Infantino's team that they are working with "Thrive Capital," whose CEO is Josh Kushner – brother of Jared Kushner, Donald Trump's son-in-law. The plan itself requires approval through a vote by most FIFA members.

The most significant concerns have been voiced in Europe, as it appears many of the world's poorer associations are content with the increased revenues provided by the FIFA president. Yesterday, UEFA called on football's governing bodies to take action, and it seems this will indeed happen.

According to "Sky Sports," UEFA members are set to hold an emergency meeting before the end of the week. Many European nations have expressed their readiness to boycott the World Cup if the FIFA president proceeds with his new plan.

A wave of indignation and criticism is engulfing Infantino regarding his close relationship with US President Donald Trump. He even devised a special "peace award" to present to him. During the 2026 World Cup, following discussions between the two, the suspension of American forward Folarin Balogun was lifted. Now, Infantino apparently plans to enter into direct business relationships with individuals close to the President.