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A World Cup with no participants – it could be Gianni Infantino’s boldest move yet | Marina Hyde
Marina Hyde argues that Gianni Infantino’s reported plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors has provoked unusually broad opposition and could damage Fifa’s standing. Uefa’s 55 member nations have reportedly voted unanimously to boycott Fifa competitions, including World Cups, if the proposal proceeds, raising the prospect of major European teams withdrawing from future tournaments.
The scheme is also said to have alarmed Concacaf and the Asian Football Confederation, whose president criticised Fifa’s alleged unilateral approach and called for transparency and good governance. Hyde highlights JP Morgan’s role in raising $4.2bn for the proposed commercial vehicle, noting the bank’s previous involvement in the failed European Super League; Fifa responded that “Nobody is selling football”, while Infantino was reportedly still pursuing the plan.
In short
- Uefa nations reportedly threaten a World Cup boycott over private investment plans.
- Infantino faces opposition from several football confederations.
- JP Morgan is linked to efforts to raise $4.2bn.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Private investment could bring substantial funding and commercial expertise to the World Cup, helping Fifa expand the tournament and develop football globally. Supporters might argue that new revenue streams can benefit the game if the terms are transparent, safeguards protect the competition’s integrity, and proceeds are shared fairly.
The case against
Selling investors stakes in the World Cup could give private interests influence over a major sporting institution and its future revenues, while prioritising returns over football’s wider interests. The reported lack of consultation and transparency risks undermining trust among member associations and fans, and could provoke boycotts that weaken the tournament itself.
Explained simply
Fifa is the international body that organises the men’s and women’s World Cups and oversees national football associations. Its president, Gianni Infantino, leads the organisation, while Uefa represents European football associations and Concacaf and the Asian Football Confederation represent associations in their regions.
The World Cup is a major source of income and influence for Fifa, as well as a tournament for national teams. Plans to involve private investors in its commercial rights matter because they could affect who controls those rights and how the tournament’s revenues are shared. Any dispute between Fifa and regional football bodies could also have consequences for teams’ participation in its competitions.
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