FIFA's Commercialization Attempt Fails - Infantino's Position Weakened

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has withdrawn his proposal to turn the organization into a commercial money-making machine, following strong opposition from UEFA and the North American confederation. The proposal was to establish a subsidiary to manage the World Cup and sell 20% of it to investors. Now his position has been weakened ahead of the presidential elections to be held this year.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino suffered a major setback when he withdrew his proposal to turn the organization into a commercial money-making machine. The proposal, which included establishing a subsidiary to manage the World Cup and other tournaments, with 20% of it sold to private investors, met with fierce opposition. UEFA, the richest and most influential confederation, announced a boycott of all FIFA events until the proposal was withdrawn, and the North American confederation joined in. The official announcement from FIFA ended three days of "civil war" in the world of football. Jim Boyce, former FIFA vice president, hinted that the publicity had gone to Infantino's head. Now, Infantino's position within the organization has been weakened, and presidential elections are due to be held later this year. To be re-elected, he will need a two-thirds majority in the first round or a simple majority in subsequent rounds, out of 211 national associations, many of which depend on FIFA funding.