FIFA Faces Global Backlash Over World Cup Stake Sale Plan

World football is facing the threat of major division after FIFA President Gianni Infantino unveiled plans to sell minority stakes in the World Cup and other tournaments to private investors. The proposal, announced Tuesday, has drawn intense backlash from continental confederations, politicians, and even a senior adviser to Infantino himself.

Under the plan, an investment fund led by Joshua Kushner, founder of Thrive Capital, would attract private capital. Joshua Kushner is the brother of Jared Kushner, son-in-law of U.S. President Donald Trump. FIFA has asked its 211 member associations to respond to the proposal by September 19.

UEFA's Fierce Opposition and Boycott Threat

The strongest reaction came from UEFA, Europe's football governing body with 55 members. In a meeting Thursday, UEFA voted unanimously to boycott FIFA and future World Cups if the private investment plan is not immediately scrapped.

UEFA stated that introducing such a significant proposal in secret was “irresponsible and unacceptable.” It emphasized: “The World Cup cannot be treated as an investment product. It is one of the greatest sporting legacies in football. No part of it should be handed to private investors. The World Cup is not for sale.”

CONCACAF and AFC Reject, But Stop Short of Boycott

The Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) also rejected the proposal during its Thursday meeting but did not go as far as UEFA. CONCACAF expressed “deep concern” over the lack of process, the short timeline, and the absence of review by FIFA's governance bodies.

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) also voiced strong opposition, supporting the stances of UEFA and CONCACAF, but did not threaten a boycott. The AFC argued that “football should never be placed in such a situation” and called on FIFA to urgently review its governance and decision-making systems.

No Organization Has Endorsed the Plan

So far, FIFA has received no public support from any football organization for the plan. The Mexican Football Federation (FMF) said it would study the proposal before making a final decision, neither confirming nor denying support for CONCACAF's stance.

The remaining continental confederations—CAF (Africa), CONMEBOL (South America), and OFC (Oceania)—have not yet announced official positions.

FIFA Insists on Proceeding

Amid mounting pressure, FIFA blamed the press and said it would continue the consultation process. “Our planned consultation process has been disrupted by false reports,” FIFA said. “We will continue this process to ensure each member can cast their vote based on facts.”

The strong opposition from UEFA—the most influential confederation in world football governance—combined with support from the AFC and CONCACAF suggests that Infantino's task of weathering this crisis is nearly impossible. Pressure increased further when Infantino's senior adviser, Carlos Cordeiro, resigned on Friday, urging other senior officials to speak out.

Two Critical Deadlines

The crisis has two key milestones. The first is the September 19 deadline set by Infantino for member associations to express support. Next is FIFA's upcoming tournament—the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup, scheduled to kick off in Poland next month. The Polish Football Association (PZPN) said preparations remain on track.

Then comes the FIFA presidential election race, with the candidate registration deadline on November 18 and a vote expected in March 2027 in Rabat, Morocco. After the success of the 2026 World Cup, Infantino was widely expected to easily secure a fourth term, but now his ability to navigate the current crisis remains a major question.