European countries consider World Cup boycott over FIFA investment plan

European nations are discussing a possible boycott of the World Cup after FIFA president Gianni Infantino floated a plan to sell shares in a spin-off venture, according to Sky News. The proposal, which has drawn sharp criticism from European football bodies, involves selling commercial rights to the tournament for an estimated $20 billion. The Guardian reports that critics have accused FIFA of “selling the soul of football” through the plan. Sky News reports that the discussions among European countries are in early stages but reflect growing anger over Infantino’s proposal. The BBC notes that UEFA is furious at the plan, which would see private investment brought into the World Cup for the first time. The Telegraph has described the proposal as a “nuclear bomb” for football, while The Times reports that Infantino is seeking to sell stakes in the tournament itself.  The plan would create a separate commercial entity to manage the World Cup’s rights, allowing outside investors to buy into the event. European football associations view this as a threat to the traditional governance of the sport and the integrity of the competition. No formal decision on a boycott has been made, and talks are ongoing. The coming weeks will show whether European opposition can force FIFA to reconsider the plan or whether the dispute escalates further.