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FIFA Denies Selling Football Amid AFC Opposition and Resignation of Senior Advisor

FIFA responds to criticism over plans to sell stakes in World Cup commercial entity as AFC opposes and a senior advisor resigns.

31 July 2026 · 11:51 · 1 sources

On July 31, 2026, FIFA denied accusations of "selling football" concerning its plans to consult on selling stakes in a World Cup commercial entity to private investors. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has joined the opposition against these plans. Additionally, Carlos Cordeiro, a senior advisor to FIFA president Gianni Infantino, resigned in protest against the proposed consultation.

Sources

SKY Sport — FIFA denies 'selling football' as AFC joins opposition and senior advisor quits

THE QUESTIONS THIS EVENT LEAVES BEHIND

FIFA Denies Selling Football Amid AFC Opposition and Resignation of Senior Advisor

Sources

What specific concerns does the AFC have regarding FIFA's proposal to sell stakes in the World Cup commercial entity?

How might the resignation of a senior advisor impact FIFA's decision-making process moving forward?

What are the potential financial or governance implications if FIFA proceeds with selling stakes to private investors?

How have other football governing bodies besides AFC responded to FIFA's plans?

What alternatives, if any, has FIFA considered to raise funds without selling stakes in the World Cup commercial entity?