FIFA Faces Crisis Over £185 Million Unpaid Bill

A new scandal has erupted within FIFA concerning an unpaid bill of £185 million, which threatens the future of the FIFA Club World Cup. FIFA President Gianni Infantino is under significant pressure following the recent World Cup, where he reversed his decision on private investment in FIFA competitions due to backlash from the football community, including calls for his resignation from UEFA.

The issue centers on the expanded FIFA Club World Cup, which Infantino has supported since his election in 2016. The inaugural edition, featuring 32 teams, is set for 2025 in the United States.

DAZN purchased the broadcast rights for £740 million and acquired a stake from the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund. However, £185 million in solidarity payments to clubs not competing in the tournament remains unpaid, with no indication of when these payments will be made.

Preparations for the 2029 edition are also complicated, as no host has been confirmed, and agreements with European clubs are still pending.