UEFA lashed out at Infantino: 'FIFA cannot sell football'

tportalIndependentCenter4 hr. ago

According to reports by The Times and Financial Times, FIFA President Gianni Infantino is considering a model where FIFA would retain majority control over the World Cup, while selling portions of the remaining shares to national football associations and private investors. This proposal could fundamentally change how the world's largest football tournament is managed. In response, UEFA issued a strongly worded statement condemning the idea, stating that such a move would cross a line that football governing institutions should never cross. They emphasized that football's soul and governance cannot be treated as commodities, especially without transparency about who financially benefits. UEFA stressed that no one owns football, and FIFA cannot sell it. Reports suggest that the investment would be led by Joshua Kushner, brother of Jared Kushner, son-in-law of U.S. President Donald Trump, through his fund Thrive Eternal. The fund has previously invested in the San Francisco Giants baseball team. There is also speculation about Infantino's potential future role as a 'commissar' of the World Cup after his presidential term ends in 2031. FIFA has not yet responded to requests for a评论.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both UEFA's strong opposition to the proposed changes and Infantino's plans without overtly favoring one side. It includes direct quotes from both parties and does not editorialize or use biased language.

Telegram.hrIndependentCenter4 hr. ago

The article reports that FIFA President Gianni Infantino is considering selling a minority stake in the World Cup to private investors, potentially transforming the governance model of global football. This proposal, supported by Donald Trump’s administration, would create a new company overseeing all FIFA tournaments, allowing member associations to retain or sell their shares. The plan could generate significant revenue for national federations, which currently receive around €2 million annually. However, UEFA has strongly criticized the idea, calling it beyond acceptable boundaries and emphasizing that football is not a commodity to be traded. Concerns include potential pressure from private capital to award hosting rights to commercially lucrative nations. Infantino is expected to secure another presidential mandate until 2031 due to lack of formal opposition.

Bias read (Center): While the topic involves high-stakes political decision-making within international sports governance, the article presents multiple perspectives: the proposed economic model by Infantino and Trump’s administration, the critical stance from UEFA, and the broader implications for football governance.

Index.hrIndependentCenter4 hr. ago

The president of FIFA, Gianni Infantino, is reportedly considering a radical plan to sell minority shares in the World Cup to private investors, which could fundamentally change the management of the world's most popular sport. According to The Times, this move would allow Infantino to earn tens of millions of euros personally. The proposal involves creating a new commercial entity that would control all FIFA competitions, including both men's and women's tournaments. Consultations with the Trump administration have already taken place regarding this controversial plan. One high-ranking figure in football described the proposal as a 'nuclear bomb' for the sport. FIFA is actively negotiating with JP Morgan to raise billions by selling around 20% of ownership to external investors. The European Football Union (UEFA) strongly condemned these reports, stating that such actions cross a line that leading football institutions should never cross. They emphasized that football's soul and governance cannot be treated as commodities, especially without transparency about who benefits financially.

Bias read (Center): The article presents information about a potential sale of FIFA assets and includes quotes from multiple sources, including The Times and a high-ranking football official, as well as a strong condemnation from UEFA. It does not exhibit clear bias toward any side but rather provides a balanced view,

Jutarnji listIndependentProgressive4 hr. ago

The article reports on plans by FIFA President Gianni Infantino to sell up to 30% of the ownership stake in the new World Cup entity to private investors, potentially worth around €17.5 billion. The proposal, initially reported by The Times and Financial Times, has sparked strong opposition within football circles due to concerns over its impact on the global tournament calendar. The process is being managed by JP Morgan, with input from Donald Trump’s administration. Infantino would transition into a consultant role after his mandate ends in 2031, earning millions in compensation. Critics, including Spanish La Liga president Javier Tebas, accuse Infantino of fostering hostility and misinformation, while questioning his defensive stance amid growing pressure.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the controversy around FIFA's potential privatization as a threat to the integrity of football, emphasizing criticism from influential figures like Javier Tebas. It highlights concerns over transparency and accountability, aligning more closely with progressive critiques of elite,