Background

UEFA is maintaining its threat to boycott FIFA competitions amid an escalating dispute with FIFA president Gianni Infantino. The conflict began after FIFA proposed allowing private investors to acquire a stake in a new commercial entity linked to the World Cup and other FIFA competitions. UEFA strongly opposed the plan, raising concerns about governance, transparency and the future direction of world football. FIFA later withdrew the proposal, but UEFA said this was not enough to resolve the dispute and has sought assurances that a similar plan will not return. Several European football associations have also criticised Infantino’s leadership, while he continues to receive support from associations and confederations outside Europe. A UEFA boycott of FIFA competitions could have major consequences for international football and European national teams. The threat remains in place, but UEFA has not confirmed that teams will withdraw from a specific FIFA competition.