Accra: UK ministers have endorsed UEFA's decision to boycott FIFA competitions, opposing the global body's proposal to create a company involving private investors to manage the World Cup and other events.
According to Ghana News Agency, UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy labeled the move as a 'principled decision' and emphasized the importance of keeping football in the hands of fans rather than billionaire investors. She urged for action to safeguard the integrity of the sport.
The boycott was declared after a crisis meeting of UEFA members following FIFA's controversial plan announcement. The plan involves setting up FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) to oversee competitions like the men's and women's World Cups, with private investors acquiring minority stakes. Thrive Eternal, led by Joshua Kushner, has been identified as the lead investor.
UEFA issued a statement on Thursday asserting that no national teams under its jurisdiction would participate in FIFA competitions as long as the proposals remain active. UEFA demands the complete abandonment of the proposal and binding assurances that FIFA's governance and competitions will remain free from private ownership.
FIFA defended the plans, claiming they would significantly boost development funding for national associations globally, potentially providing up to $10 billion between 2027 and 2030. However, the proposal has faced significant backlash from both football and political figures.
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham criticized the plans, asserting that football should not be owned by investors and that the World Cup is not for sale. Anna Sabine, Liberal Democrat sport spokeswoman, supported the boycott and suggested that UEFA establish a new global football body prioritizing accountability and fan interests.
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage commended UEFA's stance, calling for FIFA President Gianni Infantino to step down. Associations have been given until September 19 to decide on their stance regarding private investment, with documents revealing that FIFA anticipates receiving all investment funds by the end of October.
A spokeswoman for the Football Association affirmed the English governing body's solidarity with UEFA, opposing FIFA's plans and declaring that the World Cup rightfully belongs to football. The Football Association of Wales and the Scottish FA also expressed their support for UEFA's position.