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

UEFA and all 55 of its member associations, including the Israel Football Association led by Shinu Zoharitz, have unanimously opposed FIFA's unprecedented plan to sell part of the World Cup rights to private investors. This move, announced on July 30, 2026, threatens to alter the ownership structure of major football tournaments and could lead to UEFA and its members boycotting FIFA competitions, including the World Cup, if the plan proceeds.

The proposal by FIFA aims to transfer commercial control, including ticket sales, to private investors. UEFA argues this would severely undermine the fairness of the sport, potentially giving financial advantages such as home advantage to certain national teams. The stance has received broad support, including from the British Prime Minister.

The decision marks a significant escalation in tensions between UEFA and FIFA, centered on economic control and commercial rights of football's biggest events. FIFA President Gianni Infantino plans to bring the proposal to a vote in September. Despite UEFA's opposition, the plan is expected to pass due to Infantino's strong backing from Asian and African nations, which dominate FIFA's membership.

Infantino is widely expected to secure a fourth term as FIFA president in November, with over 200 of FIFA's 211 member associations likely to support him. Meanwhile, UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin's strained relationship with Infantino remains unresolved, and speculation about potential challengers to Infantino, such as PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi, has emerged. The outcome of this dispute could profoundly impact the future of the World Cup and global football governance.