FIFPro Europe condemns reported FIFA move ‘to sell’ World Cup stakes, urges rethink | OneFootball

FIFPro Europe has urged FIFA to rethink after The Times reported Gianni Infantino’s intention to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors.

The European arm of the global players’ union joined a chorus of objections from several confederations, including UEFA, following the report.

FIFPro Europe expressed deep concern over any plan to transform the World Cup and other FIFA competitions into assets open to private capital.

Given the potentially significant implications for player welfare, the international match calendar and future governance, it said it was troubling that such a major project had been developed largely behind closed doors and was nearing a deal without meaningful consultation.

The organisation warned of fundamental risks to global football governance and the integrity of the game, adding that stakeholder involvement in FIFA decision-making has long been limited and must not yield to commercial influence. It stated it could not, and would never, support such a model.

Noting that neither FIFPro nor players hold a vote within FIFA, it argued those most affected would live with the consequences long after the current leadership departs, and called on FIFA to reconsider its proposal without delay.

Source: L'Équipe