FIFA president Gianni Infantino is under fire amid plans to sell shares in the World Cup, sparking anger from fans and confederations such as UEFA, who have accused him of 'crossing a line'09:40, 29 Jul 2026Updated 09:55, 29 Jul 2026The Football Association have released a statement saying that they are 'deeply concerned' by Gianni Infantino's plans to sell off the World Cup. FIFA announced on Tuesday - after reports leaked its plans - that they intended to expand 'football development funding' to more than $10billion (£7.5bn) by inviting third-party investment to its competitions, including the World Cup.‌It has been reported that Infantino would make millions from private investors. European football confederation issued a strong-worded statement, accusing FIFA of 'crossing the line', while the UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham said that FIFA had 'sold out'.‌Now the FA have spoken out in a statement published on Wednesday. It read: "We were completely unaware of this proposal and have no substantive details, including what the proposition actually is, and what conditions are attached.‌"Based on the limited information, we are deeply concerned about the lack of process and governance to get to this point, and the apparent substance and principles involved. When the proposal is shared in the full and transparent way now promised by FIFA, we will make our views clear, and comment further."JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Latest news, analysis and much more on Mirror Football's Facebook pageAlongside UEFA, CONCACAF - the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football - have joined the criticism. "CONCACAF was only made aware of this matter through media reports and, subsequently, via a media release," it began.‌"We are deeply concerned by the lack of due process. We share the disappointment of many within our region and the game that this level of detail has been designed and shared publicly before any discussion with the relevant governance bodies and stakeholders has taken place."As leaders within football, we are the custodians of the game. Collectively, Fifa, the Confederations and every Member Association have a responsibility to always act in the best interests of the sport. Every decision we make must be guided by good governance, robust processes and long-term stewardship."This is the framework within which CONCACAF operates. We trust that all within the Fifa family will act in the same manner."‌Should the confederations break away from FIFA? Have your say in the comments section.UEFA will hold emergency talks on Wednesday and could discuss breaking away from FIFA competitions in what would be a drastic move. "This crosses a line that football's governing institutions should never cross," the European body said.‌"UEFA takes it extremely seriously. So should every National Football Association. So should every stakeholder: leagues, clubs, players, supporters, governments and everyone who cares about the future of the game."The soul and governance of football are not assets to trade – especially with zero transparency as to who gains financially. None of us are the owners of football. It is not FIFA's to sell."Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.Article continues below