FIFA has given national football associations, including the Football Association of Ireland (FAI), a 53-day deadline to sign up to a contentious plan for the World Cup, according to The Irish Times.
The proposal, which has drawn criticism from UEFA and several national bodies, involves selling a stake in the tournament worth $4 billion, Sky News reports. The plan is part of FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s broader push for expansion, a goal he has pursued since taking office, The Guardian notes.
The English FA has expressed being “deeply concerned” about the proposal, Sky News reports. UEFA has also issued a further statement opposing the plans, according to UEFA.com. The BBC reports that Infantino is actively promoting the sell-off plan, which would give private investors a share of future World Cup revenues.
The 53-day ultimatum applies to all associations, including the FAI, as FIFA seeks to secure commitments before moving forward. The Irish Times reports that the deadline puts pressure on member associations to decide quickly on a plan that many view as a fundamental shift in how the World Cup is governed and financed.
The coming weeks will show whether enough associations accept the terms or if opposition from UEFA and others can force a change to FIFA’s approach.
