Gianni Infantino is quickly losing backing to remain as FIFA president after European nations warned they would boycott the World Cup if he proceeds with a plan to sell part of the tournament to private investors, according to Sky News.
Key facts
- Sky News reports Gianni Infantino is rapidly losing support to remain as FIFA president.
- European nations have announced a World Cup boycott if the sell-off proceeds.
- The dispute centres on a plan to sell part of the tournament to private investors.
Gianni Infantino is rapidly losing support to remain as FIFA president, according to Sky News, amid a growing dispute over the future ownership of football’s flagship tournament.
The reported erosion of support follows an announcement by European nations that they would boycott the World Cup if Infantino goes ahead with a plan to sell part of the tournament to private investors.
The proposal to bring private investment into the World Cup has become the central flashpoint in the standoff, with Sky News reporting that European federations are prepared to withdraw from the competition rather than accept the arrangement.
The threatened boycott raises the prospect of a serious rift within football’s governing structures over how the sport’s biggest event should be run and funded. At this stage, the reporting focuses on the loss of support and the boycott threat rather than any final decision by FIFA.
Why it matters
The World Cup is football's most-watched event and a major commercial and cultural fixture, so a boycott by European nations would have significant sporting and financial consequences. A challenge to Infantino's leadership signals deep divisions over whether private investors should hold a stake in the tournament.
Frequently asked questions
Why are European nations threatening to boycott the World Cup?
According to Sky News, European nations announced a boycott in response to a plan to sell part of the World Cup to private investors.
Has CONCACAF supported the plan?
No. Sky News reports that CONCACAF has rejected the proposals.
Is Infantino's position as FIFA president at risk?
Sky News reports that Infantino is rapidly losing support to remain as FIFA president, though no final outcome has been confirmed in the reporting.