UEFA threatens to boycott FIFA competitions

In response to FIFA's privatization plans, European football associations have strengthened their support for the unanimous threat of a boycott of the World Cup and all competitions organized by the world governing body. More than 25 of the 55 member federations spoke out during a virtual UEFA meeting to denounce the privatization plans pushed by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, before the confederation unanimously decided to brandish the nuclear option by threatening a boycott. England still dreams of a perfect UEFA ranking and some officials even wish for Infantino's departure.

During the virtual meeting organized by UEFA, the 55 member federations were invited to express their views on FIFA's proposed privatization plans. More than half of them publicly condemned Gianni Infantino's intentions, deeming these plans incompatible with the values of football. This collective stance marks a turning point in the growing tensions between UEFA and FIFA. John Stones leaves Manchester City for Inter Milan, just one example of the potential repercussions of an institutional crisis. The discussions revealed a unanimous desire to resist the reforms proposed by FIFA, perceived as a threat to the autonomy of national federations and continental confederations. Several officials even raised the need to replace Infantino, whose isolation within FIFA continues to grow. Faced with inaction from other confederations, UEFA has chosen to take action by adopting a radical position. The threat of a boycott of FIFA competitions, including the World Cup, was officially confirmed during the meeting. This decision, supported by all European federations, aims to pressure FIFA into abandoning its privatization plans. Gianni Infantino, already weakened by repeated criticism, now finds himself isolated within the governing body of world football. European federations hope that this unprecedented mobilization will be enough to make FIFA back down. However, the risks of division within world football remain high, given the considerable economic and sporting stakes of international competitions.