UEFA is set to hold an emergency meeting with its 55 member associations over FIFA’s proposed $20 billion private investment plan, with a possible boycott of the World Cup reportedly among the options being discussed.
The move followed FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s proposal to establish the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), a new subsidiary that would oversee the commercial and event operations of FIFA competitions, including the men’s and women’s World Cups.
FIFA said the initiative would involve minority investment while maintaining full control over football governance.
The global football body said the funds generated would be used to expand development programmes for its 211 member associations.
However, UEFA has strongly opposed the plan, questioning the transparency of the proposal and arguing that major decisions affecting football’s future should involve wider consultation.
A UEFA source was quoted as saying the European governing body believes football “isn’t FIFA’s to sell”, reflecting growing resistance among European associations.
The disagreement has revived memories of UEFA’s successful pushback against FIFA’s proposed biennial World Cup plans in 2021, when European opposition played a major role in halting the idea.
With tensions rising, UEFA is now considering stronger measures, including the possibility of a boycott, as it prepares to discuss the investment proposal with its member associations.
The outcome of the emergency meeting could shape the next stage of the power struggle between FIFA and UEFA over the future direction of international football.
