FIFA has defended its controversial proposal to bring private investors into the commercial side of its major competitions, insisting that football is not being put up for sale despite growing opposition from major confederations.
The News Chronicle reports that UEFA has threatened to boycott future World Cups if the plan moves forward, while CONCACAF has also rejected the proposal and raised concerns about how it was introduced.
FIFA wants to establish a commercial subsidiary called FIFA Forward Enterprise, which would allow outside investors to acquire minority stakes without controlling the organisation.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino requires the support of 106 out of 211 member associations in order for the plan to pass. UEFA together with CONCACAF secure 96 votes.
FIFA claimed that their consultation process was appropriate, as member associations are now able to make informed decisions.
The Asian Football Confederation accused FIFA of the inadequate consultation process, saying they were not properly informed of the details for the sale of the sport’s intellectual property. The CAF (Confederation of African Football) and OFC (Oceania Football Confederation) are due to meet in August to discuss the issue further, while CONMEBOL (South American Football Confederation) has yet to officially comment on the proposals.
The controversy around the privatization of football has raised questions about the sport’s commercial direction.
