FIFA has officially scrapped its proposal to sell a stake in the upcoming World Cup to private investors, a decision taken after a wave of criticism from across the football community.
The move reflects growing concerns over the commercialisation of the tournament and the need to preserve the competition’s integrity, according to statements released by the sport’s continental confederations.
Reactions from football’s governing bodies
UEFA issued a statement praising the withdrawal, noting that confidence in the current leadership had eroded and that a new resource distribution model will be advanced through the FIFA Forward programme.
Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al‑Khalifa, President of the Asian Football Confederation, underscored the importance of consultation, dialogue and respect for governance structures in shaping the future of global football.
Pascale Van Damme, Chair of the Royal Belgian Football Association’s Board of Directors, reaffirmed her organisation’s commitment to a strong, independent and sustainable model for international football.
Anter Isaac, Chairman of Football Australia, highlighted the necessity of integrity, independence and transparency, calling for meaningful consultation as the sport progresses.
Simon Åström, Chairman of the Swedish Football Association, welcomed the decision but warned that transparency and governance deficiencies remain unresolved.
The collective response from Europe, Asia, Africa and Oceania signals a broad demand for reform, with each body urging FIFA to adopt clearer, more accountable practices before the next tournament cycle.