FIFA Faces Strong Opposition from UEFA and AFC Over World Cup Sales
FIFA's plan to market the World Cup is facing significant backlash from both UEFA and the Asian Football

Uefa and Concacaf have formally requested that Fifa pay at least $10 million to each of its 211 member associations, a move that highlights ongoing tensions between football's governing bodies. The demand comes in response to Fifa President Gianni Infantino's recent proposal for a private equity initiative, which was quickly abandoned after receiving widespread criticism from national associations.
In a letter addressed to Infantino, Uefa President Aleksander Ceferin and Concacaf President Victor Montagliani pointed out that Fifa is projected to close the financial period from 2023 to 2026 with reserves of approximately $6 billion. They argue that this amount is significantly more than what is necessary for the organization’s operations leading up to the 2030 Men's World Cup.
The letter suggests that making a one-time payment of $10 million to each member association would cost Fifa around $2.11 billion, in addition to the regular funding provided during the cycle. This funding is intended to support investment in infrastructure and football development across the member nations.
Ceferin and Montagliani's correspondence indicates that an analysis of Fifa's financial statements raises questions about the necessity of the private equity proposal, suggesting that a larger distribution from Fifa’s reserves should be considered. They also called for an independent review of Fifa's finances to ensure transparency and accountability.
The letter emphasizes that Fifa's substantial reserves should be utilized to benefit the sport and its member associations, stating, "These resources belong to football and exist to serve the game and its 211 member associations." It argues that member associations should not have to choose between development and good governance.
In addition to this letter, another communication was sent to the presidents of other confederations—Asia, Africa, South America, and Oceania—seeking their support for the proposal. This development follows a letter from Football Association chair Debbie Hewitt, who has also requested that Fifa release all documents related to the controversial private equity plan.
As Infantino prepares for his fourth election bid in March, he faces increasing scrutiny and calls for transparency from various stakeholders within the football community.