FIFA President Gianni Infantino has been forced into a significant U-turn, abandoning his ambitious plans to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors. The reversal comes amidst fierce backlash from major confederations, casting a shadow over the 56-year-old’s leadership ahead of next March’s election.

Infantino, who succeeded Sepp Blatter in 2016, had been pushing for a ‘£15 billion sell-off’ that would have seen private entities gain involvement in future World Cups. To garner support for his vision, Infantino had offered substantial financial incentives to FIFA’s 211 member associations:

• £15 million ($20 million) instantly if they voted through his plans.

• A further £50 million ($66 million) to each association before 2038.

Widespread opposition from major confederations

Despite the lucrative offer, the proposal was met with widespread opposition. UEFA, led by Aleksander Ceferin, emerged as one of Infantino’s most vocal critics, urging European nations to withdraw their support. They were soon joined by CONMEBOL, CONCACAF, and the AFC, creating a formidable bloc against the FIFA chief.

Collectively, UEFA and CONCACAF account for 90 of FIFA’s 211 member associations. This number is significant as it surpasses the 20 per cent threshold required to trigger a vote of no confidence. However, it falls short of the simple majority needed to outright topple Infantino from his position.

Read also: Van Dijk makes candid admission: Asked a particular question, he immediately names Haaland

A fragile balance of support and dissent

While a significant portion of FIFA’s membership has publicly opposed the investment plan, Infantino still commands support from several nations. Qatar, the host of the 2022 World Cup, was among five nations to come to his defence, with a statement that “applauded his wisdom” and “efforts to continue growing and strengthening the game globally.” Kuwait, Sri Lanka, and Lebanon also reiterated their confidence in his leadership, as reported by the Daily Mail.

David Trunda, president of the Czech Republic’s football association, expressed support for Infantino’s original vision, believing the plan would have provided valuable additional funding for grassroots football and infrastructure development.

The decision to abandon the investment plan was welcomed by some, with Australia, an AFC member, stating, “Attention must now turn to the future.” The public opposition now accounts for 43 per cent of FIFA’s total membership. With 40 AFC member associations yet to comment publicly, the landscape remains fluid. Although undeclared associations are not obligated to vote in line with their confederations, the upcoming election next March could see Infantino’s presidency threatened if just 16 nations were to break ranks and side with the opposition.

Read also: How much every Premier League club has spent this summer (2026/27)

Read also: Present but not back: Eriksen's brief Wolfsburg return leaves his playing future open