FIFA President Offers Bribes in Exchange for Votes on His Plan

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is offering $40 million to national football associations that vote in favor of his plan to sell 21% of World Cup commercial and broadcasting rights to private investors, while those opposing would receive only $10 million. UEFA has labeled this as "bribery." The decision window is just 53 days. The move has sparked global outrage, particularly in Europe, raising concerns about the commercialization of the world's most important tournament.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is at the center of a global storm after offering a financial incentive to national football associations in exchange for their support of his plan to sell 21% of World Cup commercial and broadcasting rights to private investors. In a letter sent to 211 associations, Infantino clarified that each country voting in favor of the plan would receive an immediate grant of $40 million, along with increased development budgets, while opponents would receive only $10 million. The decision window is just 53 days. UEFA harshly criticized the financial conditionality, calling it an attempt to buy votes and stating that football is not an asset for sale. Sources familiar with the details categorize the move as "bribery." The event has sparked widespread anger, especially in Europe, and raises concerns about the commercialization of the world's most important tournament.

FIFA President Offers Bribes in Exchange for Votes on His Plan