UEFA and 55 European Federations Threaten to Boycott FIFA World Cup Over Rights Sale

UEFA and all 55 of its member associations, including the Israel Football Association led by Shino Zuaretz, have jointly opposed FIFA's unprecedented plan to sell part of the World Cup rights to private investors. This move, announced on July 30, 2026, involves transferring ownership of commercial elements of the World Cup, such as ticket sales, to private entities. UEFA warned that this could severely undermine the fairness of football competitions, potentially giving financial interests undue influence, such as favoring certain national teams with home advantage during the tournament.

The decision to potentially boycott FIFA tournaments, including the World Cup, was communicated by UEFA to Sky Sports correspondent Rob Harris. It reflects a unified and unequivocal rejection of FIFA's proposal, which UEFA fears will alter the fundamental ownership and control of major football events. The stance has received broad political support, including from the British Prime Minister.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino plans to put the proposal to a vote in September. Despite UEFA's opposition, the measure is expected to pass due to Infantino's strong backing from Asian and African member associations, which constitute a majority of FIFA's 211 members. Infantino is also favored to secure a fourth term in the November FIFA presidential elections. The strained relationship between Infantino and UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin is unlikely to affect Infantino's position significantly.

The escalating conflict highlights deep tensions over economic control, commercial rights, and the future governance of football's biggest tournaments. Speculation surrounds UEFA possibly seeking to replace Infantino, with Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi mentioned as a potential candidate. The outcome of this dispute could have profound implications for the 2026 World Cup and the global football landscape.