AFC, sided with Uefa and Concacaf in opposing Fifa's plan

AFC, sided with Uefa and Concacaf in opposing Fifa's plan

According to Bbc.

Why it matters

The AFC's opposition to Fifa's plan has profound implications for the future of World Cup 2026 football. The unity of confederations such as Uefa and Concacaf is essential to maintain the integrity and universal nature of the tournament. If the plan is not passed, it could cause a change in the dynamics of the transfer market and the management of international competitions.

Key Points

• AFC, sided with Uefa and Concacaf in opposing Fifa's plan.
• The AFC agreed with Uefa and Concacaf's position to oppose Fifa's plan to sell stakes in its competitions to private investors, saying the unity and universal nature of the World Cup would be at risk if it went ahead.
• AFC joins Uefa and Concacaf in opposing Fifa plan - BBC Sport.

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) said it "stands in solidarity" with Uefa and Concacaf in opposing Fifa's plan to sell a stake in its competitions to private investors. In a statement released this Friday, the AFC insisted that the move being pushed by Fifa president Gianni Infantino would not "achieve the broad consensus and unity needed" to proceed. The AFC emphasized that the Fifa World Cup is the pinnacle of international football and its strength comes from the participation of all confederations and leading nations in the sport. Any proposal that could undermine the unity and universal character of the tournament, according to the AFC, should be carefully considered and re-evaluated before being put forward. The stance of the AFC—along with Uefa (Europe) and Concacaf (North and Central America and the Caribbean)—is a major obstacle to the potential ratification of the plan if it is put to a vote by members. Three confederations representing a wide swath of world football are openly opposed, an indication that it will be difficult for Fifa to get the support it needs.

Although the details of the structure have not been specified, Fifa's plan centers on selling stakes in its tournaments to the private investment sector. For the opposing confederations, there is a risk that the balance of power, governance, and fundamental principles of fair competition will be affected if interests from outside organized football come in. An important context here is the Fifa World Cup, which in 2026 will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and expanded to 48 teams. With the breadth and weight of preparations for the biggest edition of the tournament, confederations are now prioritizing unity and trust in the governance process to maintain the level, integrity, and global appeal of the competition. For Asia—including the Philippines as a member of the AFC—this position reflects the priority of the collective interests of the member associations and the stability of the football calendar and investment in the region. Although not directly focused on a country or team, this matter has an impact on the general direction of the global market and the long-term structure of tournaments under Fifa. For now, the AFC's message remains clear: any change in the ownership or funding of Fifa tournaments must go through thorough discussion and broad consensus. As the world awaits the next step from Fifa, the call for an open and inclusive process to preserve unity in global football is intensifying.

What's next

Discussions between AFC, Uefa, and Concacaf are expected to continue to strengthen their position against Fifa's plan. The next steps may contain a more in-depth analysis of the implications of selling stakes in tournaments. These decisions may affect the future of the World Cup 2026 club and the development of football around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are involved in the opposition to Fifa's plan?

Those involved are the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), Uefa, and Concacaf.

What is Fifa's plan that the AFC opposes?

Fifa's plan is to sell part of its tournaments to private investors.

Why did AFC oppose Fifa's plan?

The AFC opposed the plan fearing it would undermine the unity and universal character of the tournament.

What will be the effect of AFC's objection to Fifa's plan?

The opposition of the AFC, along with Uefa and Concacaf, will be an obstacle to the potential adoption of the plan k to put it on the ballot.

When will the next Fifa World Cup be held?

The next Fifa World Cup will be held in 2026 in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

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