UEFA to boycott 2030 World Cup over FIFA stake sale plans

UEFA has announced it will boycott the 2030 FIFA World Cup if FIFA president Gianni Infantino proceeds with plans to sell ownership stakes in the tournament to private investors.

By Daniel McKee1 min read

Email Report an error

Image not availableNot all original photographs have been retained in the digital archive.

UEFA's 55 member associations unanimously rejected FIFA's proposal to transfer ownership interests in the World Cup to private investors. The decision followed an emergency meeting held on 30 July 2026.

The Scottish FA expressed agreement with concerns over the lack of consultation and governance in the proposal's development. The Premier League also backed UEFA's stance, stating full support for the statement.

The AFC described the plans as totally unacceptable, while CONCACAF raised deep concerns over the absence of review by FIFA governance bodies. The first test of the boycott will occur in October 2026 during Women's World Cup qualifier play-offs.