UEFA votes to boycott World Cup over FIFA private investment plan

FIFA's plan to sell World Cup stakes to private investors has prompted UEFA's 55 member nations to vote for a boycott of all FIFA tournaments. The controversial plan, which originated in 2025 talks between FIFA's chief and venture capitalist Joshua Kushner, has also drawn a warning from the EU over potential competition law violations, escalating a feud between football's most powerful bodies.

FIFA private investment plan

• ▪FIFA President Gianni Infantino is proceeding with plans to sell World Cup stakes to private investors.
• ▪In response, UEFA's 55 member nations have resolved to boycott FIFA tournaments, including the World Cup, if the plan proceeds.
• ▪The plan involves selling a stake in FIFA's new media division, which has caused an uproar in international football.

Kushner involvement

• ▪The investment plan originated in secret talks in 2025 between FIFA's chief and venture capitalist Joshua Kushner.
• ▪Joshua Kushner is a venture capitalist with family ties to U.S. President Donald Trump.

EU competition concerns

• ▪A top European Union official warned that FIFA's plan to raise external investment may spark competition law concerns.
• ▪The European Union official described FIFA's plan as "controversial".

3 sources