American, Asian confederations blindsided by FIFA’s World Cup plan

FIFA's proposal to establish a commercial subsidiary offering private investment stakes in World Cup operations has provoked strong objections from regional football confederations. CONCACAF, representing North, Central America and the Caribbean, and the AFC, representing Asia, both stated they were informed of the plan through media coverage rather than through official FIFA channels, raising concerns about governance procedures.

CONCACAF issued a formal statement expressing deep concern about the lack of due process in FIFA's decision-making. The confederation emphasized that as custodians of the sport, regional bodies and member associations bear responsibility for ensuring decisions serve football's long-term interests and are guided by robust governance principles. CONCACAF noted disappointment that such a significant proposal was publicly announced before consultation with relevant stakeholders.

The AFC similarly expressed disappointment at the announcement's timing and scope. The confederation acknowledged the value of exploring innovative revenue approaches but stressed that such initiatives must be founded on transparency, good governance, and meaningful consultation with confederations, member associations, and other stakeholders. The AFC emphasized that decisions reshaping the sport's commercial and financial structure require comprehensive prior engagement and sufficient time for stakeholders to assess governance, legal, commercial, and strategic implications.

Combined with UEFA's 55 member associations, the objecting confederations represent 143 of FIFA's 211 total member associations. This substantial opposition underscores widespread concern about the privatization model and the process through which FIFA introduced the proposal to the football community.