European football associations have unanimously agreed to boycott the World Cup in response to FIFA president Gianni Infantino's plan to privatise the tournament. The decision follows an emergency meeting called by UEFA after FIFA's proposal to welcome private investment into the World Cup, which European football chiefs have described as crossing a line.
UEFA's emergency meeting
The meeting was held after FIFA's plan was announced, with European football chiefs reportedly enraged by the brazen nature of the proposals, which they have accused of being conducted in a manner akin to 'bribery'. Football's governing bodies were told they would be guaranteed more money if they agreed to the proposals before a September 19 deadline.
UEFA statement
Ahead of the meeting, UEFA released a statement saying: "Today we have learned of Fifa’s deadline to associations to support their proposals or have the one-off payout offer withdrawn. This says everything you need to know about this plan. But having held discussions with many stakeholders across the game, Uefa knows there is significant and growing opposition to Fifa’s scheme."
The statement continued: "Fifa cannot continue to use our sport to enrich themselves and their friends. We can grow the game correctly. It’s time to prioritise associations, clubs, leagues, players and fans."
