Major European football associations are backing UEFA’s firm stance against FIFA’s intent to sell a commercial stake in the World Cup to private financiers. Following a unanimous vote, these nations have threatened to exit FIFA-sanctioned tournaments if the governing body persists with the plan.
England’s Football Association expressed total solidarity with the European movement, asserting that the tournament’s integrity belongs solely to the sport. Similarly, the Scottish FA condemned the lack of transparency and proper governance surrounding the proposal. Danish FA chairman Jesper Moller rejected the idea of involving private capital, while Germany’s Alexander Wehrle criticized the move as an unacceptable pursuit of profit that crosses ethical lines.
Sweden and Norway have also voiced strong opposition. Norwegian FA president Lise Klaveness warned that members are ready to follow through with a total boycott if the project moves forward without open consultation. Outside the administrative sphere, British Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy praised the stance, emphasizing that football belongs to the fans. Meanwhile, politician Nigel Farage has publicly demanded the resignation of FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
This unified opposition from UEFA’s 55 member states represents a significant escalation in the ongoing power struggle regarding the future and management of global football.
