According to a report by Sky Sports, UEFA member associations are discussing the possibility of boycotting the 2030 World Cup in response to FIFA's proposed commercial restructuring. A virtual meeting is scheduled to take place later this week, where officials are expected to discuss strategies and possible actions to challenge FIFA's plans.
Under the proposal, FIFA intends to establish a new subsidiary called FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE). The company would be responsible for overseeing the commercial activities of FIFA's major tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup.
FIFA estimates the new company could be valued at approximately $20 billion. As part of the plan, the organization aims to sell a minority stake worth $4.2 billion to private investors while retaining overall control of the company.
UEFA has strongly criticized the proposal. In an official statement, the governing body said, "This crosses a line that football's governing bodies should never cross. UEFA is treating this matter with the utmost seriousness."
The statement further added, "The soul of football and its system of governance are not assets to be bought or sold, especially when there is no transparency regarding who will ultimately benefit financially. Football does not belong to any individual or organization, and therefore FIFA has no right to sell it."
FIFA, however, argues that the funds raised through private investment would be used to support the development of its member associations. At present, each member federation receives funding equivalent to approximately 41 million Brazilian reais through FIFA's development programs.
In its official statement, FIFA said that the additional investment would help maximize revenue from broadcasting rights and sponsorship deals while unlocking greater commercial potential across all of its competitions, including men's, women's, and youth football.
Despite FIFA's assurances, the proposal has created growing unease within European football. Many observers believe the dispute could have significant implications for preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, particularly as Spain and Portugal are among the tournament's principal host nations. With several European countries taking a firm stance against the proposal, the outcome of this conflict could have a major impact on the future of world football.
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