Wenger Supports Scrapping Infantino's World Cup Stake Plan

Arsene Wenger, FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, stated that the decision to scrap Gianni Infantino’s controversial proposal to sell a 20 percent stake in the World Cup was “absolutely necessary and beyond question.” Infantino's plan aimed to attract private equity investors through FIFA Forward Enterprise but faced significant criticism, including threats from UEFA to boycott FIFA competitions. Wenger, who has been in his role since 2019, clarified that he was not involved in the strategic plan and first learned of it through media reports.

He emphasized the importance of an independent FIFA that operates with commitment, transparency, and integrity. Following the backlash, FIFA's Chief Operating Officer, Kevin Lamour, indicated that staff felt “deceived” by Infantino.

Several European football associations, including the Football Association of Wales and the English Football Association, have withdrawn their support for Infantino, who is set to seek re-election in March and requires 106 votes from FIFA’s 211 members to win.