Global Markets
Home›Global Markets›Trade & Tariffs›Uefa accuses Fifa over World Cup sell off, set Sept. 1…
Uefa accuses Fifa over World Cup sell off, set Sept. 19 deadline
Uefa said Fifa’s 211 associations must choose by September 19 whether to apply for an initial $20 million payment or have the offer withdrawn.
Uefa has accused Fifa of “using our sport to enrich themselves and their friends” after it emerged that Fifa’s 211 member associations have been given a September 19 deadline to decide whether to apply for an initial payment of $20 million from the proceeds of a plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors.
In a statement, Uefa said it has seen significant, growing opposition to the scheme and argued Fifa cannot continue what it called improper use of the sport, adding that it wants to prioritize associations, clubs, leagues, players and fans.
Fifa announced plans to sell the commercial rights to tournaments including the World Cup, which triggered condemnation across the game. The Football Association said it had not yet seen details of the proposals and raised concerns about Fifa governance.
The FA chair Debbie Hewitt is one of eight Fifa vice presidents, and the report notes the FA appears to have been shut out of discussions despite the plan being at an advanced stage. The article adds that the FA is understood to have held talks with Uefa and other European associations, with options including a boycott and a potential breakaway reportedly being considered.