NYP has learned about FIFA's refusal to sell a share of the World Cup rights to private investors

The International Football Federation (FIFA) has cancelled a plan to sell part of the rights to third-party investors for $20 billion after an open revolt by football officials around the world and a threat of a boycott by the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA). This was reported on July 31 by the New York Post (NYP) newspaper, citing sources.

"FIFA's plan to sell part of its business empire to outside investors failed after an open revolt by football officials around the world and a serious split among FIFA's top leadership," the publication says.

The newspaper recalled that UEFA had threatened that none of its teams would participate in FIFA events unless the plan of the international federation was canceled. Without the stars from England, Spain, France, Germany and Italy, the World Cup would have lost its audience, broadcasters and sponsors, which undermined the value of the deal, NYP noted.

Sports anger: Infantino and UEFA conflict threatens to split world football

Europe has opposed the FIFA president's intention to sell part of the World Cup hosting rights to investors close to Trump

FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced plans to attract private investors to finance the organization by selling them its rights to tournaments on July 28. Because of this, the Union of European Football Associations announced a boycott of FIFA tournaments on July 30. The participants were urged not to doubt their intention to defend their own interests and resist Infantino's plans, which "have no place in world football." The idea of the head of FIFA, as explained, is aimed at maximizing financial benefits and was initially discussed in secret from other industry representatives.

French journalist Romain Molina reported on July 31 that the head of the International Football Federation is close to resigning due to his support for American President Donald Trump. In addition, Molina called his management style, which implies sole decision-making and lack of accountability to anyone, another reason for Infantino's possible imminent departure.