UEFA threatens FIFA boycott over proposed World Cup privatisation | OneFootball

UEFA has threatened to withdraw from all FIFA competitions, in alignment with its 55 member associations, if plans to transfer ownership of the World Cup and other tournaments to private investors proceed, the confederation said in a statement.

All 55 member associations set out a unanimous and unequivocal rejection of any attempt to privatise FIFA-run competitions.

The World Cup, as the leading national-team competition, was described as a legacy built by players, national teams and supporters, not a product, and no element of it should be handed to private investors.

The proposal’s development was described as secretive, with the approach labelled irresponsible and indefensible, having advanced towards approval without proper consultation.

FIFA was accused of operating through intimidation, after what was termed an ultimatum to accept the plan or face consequences.

Once private capital enters and takes a stake, commercial profitability becomes permanent and obligatory, daily expectations intensify, and decisions on formats and calendars tilt towards shareholder interests, putting football’s future at risk.

The conclusion stressed that the FIFA World Cup belongs to football and, while Europe retains a voice, it will not be for sale.

Source: SuperDepor.com