FIFA defends its privatization plans despite criticism

FIFA and its president Gianni Infantino reaffirm their plan for a partial privatization of the World Cup while rejecting accusations of selling out football. The governing body also pointed fingers at the media, accusing them of having "disrupted the consultation process." In a statement released at 4 a.m. British time, FIFA stated it would "continue this consultation to ensure every member association has the opportunity to cast an informed vote." The controversy surrounding this proposal has sparked strong reactions, particularly from UEFA, which firmly opposes the initiative.

FIFA’s overnight statement reflects an aggressive communication strategy. The governing body emphasizes that "nobody is selling football," despite Gianni Infantino’s proposal to transfer part of the World Cup rights to a private investment fund—a move that provoked outrage among European federations, including UEFA, which sees it as a threat to the sport’s integrity. In this context, FIFA claims it wants to "ensure that every member association can vote based on the facts." Yet this stance fails to convince critics, who denounce an opaque process and a lack of transparency in the consultation management. Some observers question the legitimacy of a process conducted in haste and without prior discussion. By accusing the media of having "disrupted the consultation process," FIFA adopts a defensive tone. The governing body appears to deflect criticism of its proposal by blaming journalists, whom it claims have "complicated" the process. Yet this strategy raises questions: how can a public debate proceed calmly when the governing body rejects any form of scrutiny? This stance comes as disciplinary proceedings are underway against certain football figures, particularly in Argentina, highlighting growing tensions within the sporting community. Already weakened by these upheavals, FIFA is attempting to regain control of a deeply divisive issue in world football.