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Fifa President Infantino Faces Boycott Threat

BBC Sport Football •
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Uefa has threatened to boycott Fifa competitions if president Gianni Infantino's plan to sell a 20% stake in a subsidiary company that runs events like the World Cup is accepted. The proposal, which includes private investors like Joshua Kushner, has drawn sharp criticism from European football's governing body. Uefa stated they and their national associations "will not participate in Fifa competitions," a move that could impact upcoming events such as the U20 Women's World Cup and Women's World Cup play-offs.

Concacaf, representing North and Central America, has also rejected the proposals. The Football Association chair, Debbie Hewitt, a Fifa vice-president, and Scottish FA president Mike Mulraney, who chairs Fifa's finance committee, have voiced opposition, citing a lack of consultation. Fury over Infantino's handling of the situation is widespread.

Infantino, Fifa president since 2016, was expected to run unopposed for a fourth term. However, significant opposition, particularly from Concacaf members, is emerging. While Nasser Al-Khelaifi has been mentioned as a potential challenger, he reportedly does not desire the role. Former FA chairman David Bernstein suggested that in a normal organization, Infantino might be removed, but Fifa's structure could allow him to continue if he retains sufficient support. The potential commercial impact of European absence from Fifa events is estimated to be significant, jeopardizing Infantino's projected $40bn product.