AFC Joins UEFA, CONCACAF in Opposing FIFA Investment Plan

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has aligned with UEFA and CONCACAF in opposing FIFA's proposal to sell stakes in its competitions to private investors. In a statement released on Friday, the AFC expressed solidarity with UEFA and CONCACAF, arguing that FIFA President Gianni Infantino's proposal could not achieve the necessary consensus for approval.

The AFC emphasized that the FIFA World Cup's strength lies in the participation of all confederations and leading football nations, warning that any proposal undermining this unity must be reconsidered. The AFC's stance diminishes the chances of the proposal passing, which requires a simple majority of FIFA's 211 member associations.

UEFA and CONCACAF collectively hold 90 votes, while the AFC represents 46. The AFC criticized FIFA for inadequate stakeholder consultation, highlighting weaknesses in FIFA's decision-making processes.

Despite the growing opposition, FIFA maintains that it will pursue the proposal, asserting that it will not compromise football's governance or values.