FIFA shelves stake sale plan after backlash, easing Club World Cup threat | OneFootball

FIFA has scrapped plans to sell minority stakes in a new competitions company after heavy opposition, removing the immediate risk of a European boycott that would have jeopardised the 2029 Club World Cup, where Flamengo already have a place.

FIFA said in a statement that any such move would only happen with majority backing from its member associations and after consultation with its Council, confederations and wider stakeholders. Having listened, it concluded the project had become too divisive to serve its aims.

On Tuesday 28, the federation outlined a plan to raise US$ 4.2 billion by selling minority shareholdings linked to its competitions. Approval from all 211 member associations was required, yet most voiced public opposition, with UEFA and Concacaf the most strident critics.

Conmebol issued a milder note that did not mention a boycott. Africa, Oceania and Asia did not comment publicly, though meetings with allies were scheduled.

Flamengo, meanwhile, are targeting an Intercontinental appearance at year’s end, which depends on winning the 2026 Copa Libertadores. The South American champions could face PSG, Europe’s title holders, in December. A UEFA boycott would have ruled the French out, but FIFA’s reversal removes that scenario.

Source: Coluna Do Fla