The World Cup is not for sale: UEFA rejects FIFA investment proposal
(Courtesy : Getty Images)
All 55 UEFA members held a meeting regarding FIFA’s plans.
The 55 member organisations of European football have agreed to boycott World Cups of both Men’s and Women’s. All if the sport’s governing body goes forward with plans to sell interests in its events to corporate investors.
The decision was taken during an emergency meeting convened to address a proposal issued earlier this week by FIFA, the international football governing body.
UEFA decides on FIFA’s plans
UEFA, which regulates European football, has previously expressed its displeasure in two devastating statements. That sentiment has been reiterated.
“The World Cup cannot be treated as an investment product,” it said on Thursday.
“It is one of football’s greatest sporting legacies. It has been built over generations by players, national teams and supporters across every continent. No part of it should ever be surrendered to private investors. The World Cup is not for sale.”
FA to join UEFA in the boycott of FIFA
It is reported that FA chairperson Debbie Hewitt and chief executive Mark Bullingham spoke at the meeting. It was described as poisonous due to the strong opposition to the ideas.
An FA spokeswoman said: “We stand shoulder to shoulder with our European colleagues and fully support the collective view. We oppose FIFA’s plans – the FIFA World Cup belongs to football and always will.“
In spite of being among eight FIFA vice-presidents, Hewitt was unaware of the talks that FIFA president Gianni Infantino was having about the suggestions.
UEFA’s boycott would apply to all FIFA tournaments, including the men’s and women’s World Cups, as well as the Club World Cup. It would take effect if member associations approved Infantino’s plans.
This approach will be challenged for the first time at a senior competition in October, when the Women’s World Cup play-offs are scheduled to take place.
What is UEFA boycotting?
They are boycotting all FIFA competitions, the Women’s and Men’s World Cups, due to FIFA’s plans to sell stakes to corporate investors.
Which UEFA members are planning to boycott FIFA?
All 55 members set to boycott FIFA.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.