Why Europe is boycotting the World Cup – and what could happen next?

Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleUefa and its 55 member associations have unanimously declared they will boycott all Fifa competitions if Gianni Infantino's controversial plans to sell stakes in major tournaments to private investors are implemented. The European football governing body stated that "no Uefa national teams will participate in any Fifa competition for so long as these proposals remain alive," demanding the complete abandonment of the plan and binding assurances against future private ownership. Uefa emphasised that the World Cup is a sporting legacy and "not for sale," rejecting the idea of it being treated as an investment product and expressing outrage over Fifa’s short deadline and a promised $40m windfall to nations supporting the proposals. The boycott would encompass all Fifa-sanctioned national team tournaments, including the 2027 Women's World Cup and the 2030 Men's World Cup, but would not affect club competitions. While the Asian (AFC) and North American (CONCACAF) confederations have also voiced opposition, the South American and African federations have yet to comment, leaving the decision on whether Fifa will proceed with or modify its plans uncertain. In fullUefa’s World Cup boycott: Which countries are involved – and will it cover 2027 Fifa Women’s World Cup?More bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

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