FIFA Abandons World Cup Stake Sale Amid Global Backlash
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has retracted a proposal to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors following widespread opposition. The plan, which aimed to raise significant funds by selling commercial rights of the men's and women's World Cups and the Club World Cup, faced strong resistance from UEFA and other football confederations. UEFA even threatened to boycott future FIFA tournaments if the proposal proceeded. The backlash also led to the resignation of Carlos Cordeiro, a senior advisor to Infantino, and criticism from FIFA's chief operating officer, Kevin Lamour. Infantino acknowledged that the proposal had created divisions and announced its withdrawal, emphasizing the organization's commitment to unity and improvement in football.