Football Australia has resisted immediate criticism of FIFA's plan to seek private investment in World Cup commercial rights, instead requesting more time and information to evaluate the proposal.
The world governing body announced plans this week to sell a stake in commercial rights to its tournaments, including the World Cup, to private investors, led by FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The news triggered immediate criticism from continental federations, clubs, and politicians.
Football Australia Calls for Thorough Assessment
A spokesperson for Football Australia confirmed receipt of FIFA's proposal but said they were working to understand it fully. 'We have requested further information from FIFA to properly assess the strategic, commercial, and governance implications of such a significant step,' the spokesperson stated. 'We will only be able to form a position after receiving this information and engaging in further dialogue with our peer member associations and our confederation.'
The matter has drawn attention in Australia, with NSW Liberal Senator Dave Sharma calling the proposal 'grotesque.' 'The World Cup should not be privatised,' he said. 'It is clear from the reaction of Football Australia and other regional confederations and associations that they have been blindsided by this proposal.'
Reactions from Players and Unions
Former Socceroo Craig Foster described the proposal as football 'being sold.' 'It will fall on the players, current and former, and fans around the world to protect their World Cup. For future generations,' he said.
A Professional Footballers Australia spokesperson expressed deep concern, stating the tournaments should not be for sale. 'The PFA is disturbed by the lack of transparency surrounding the proposal and the absence of meaningful consultation with those that generate the value that FIFA is seeking to exploit – the players and the fans,' they said.
Asian Football Confederation Weighs In
Football Australia's statement aligns with that of the Asian Football Confederation, which did not rule out support but criticised FIFA's approach. The AFC said it was 'disappointing' such a matter entered the public domain before discussion. 'While the AFC recognises the importance of exploring innovative approaches that can strengthen the future of global football, initiatives of this scale and consequence must be founded upon the principles of good governance, transparency and meaningful consultation,' its statement read.
FIFA has promised external investment would deliver millions of dollars in extra funding to each national federation. Despite the recent success of the Matildas and Socceroos, Football Australia recorded a $15.3m deficit last year. FIFA has said a majority of its 211 members must express interest in taking extra funding for the investment to be allowed.
