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.