UEFA has convened an emergency meeting to discuss a potential response, including a possible boycott, to FIFA's proposal to sell stakes in its major tournaments.

FIFA has announced plans to create a semi-private subsidiary to sell stakes in the commercial operations of the World Cup and other competitions. In response, UEFA has called an emergency meeting of its 55 member associations for Thursday to coordinate a potential opposition strategy. The proposal has sparked significant tension, with European officials accusing FIFA of attempting to monetize the sport at the expense of its integrity.

Opposition and Potential Boycott

UEFA’s opposition has gained support from the North, Central American and Caribbean association (Concacaf) and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). Together, these three confederations represent 143 of FIFA's 211 member associations, potentially providing enough votes to block the move. Among the options being discussed by European members is a potential boycott of FIFA tournaments, including next year’s Women’s World Cup, though some members are hesitant to involve the women's game in the dispute.

FIFA's Stance and Financial Proposals

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the proposal, describing the new commercial entity, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), as an opportunity to accelerate global football development rather than an obligation. The plan includes an offer of an initial $20 million payment to member associations, with a second $20 million payment available later. FIFA has set a deadline of September 19 for associations to decide on the initial payment.

Voting and Statutory Requirements

While Infantino claims to have strong support for his re-election, the path for the FFE proposal remains uncertain. Critics argue that creating the entity and selling a 20% stake would require a change to FIFA statutes, which necessitates a 75% majority vote. Despite the widespread opposition, the Czech Football Association has become the first in Europe to publicly back the FIFA plan.