UEFA and CONCACAF demand that Infantino pay almost two billion
UEFA and CONCACAF are urging FIFA president Gianni Infantino for an immediate payment of at least ten million dollars per association. The confederations consider FIFA's reserves to be more than sufficient and want resources to now reach countries for infrastructure and development.
UEFA and CONCACAF demand that Infantino pay almost two billion
According to Vi.
Background
The joint action by UEFA and CONCACAF highlights the growing pressure on FIFA to reconsider its financial reserves. The focus is now on reallocating resources to boost football development, which is crucial for the participating countries' preparation for the 2026 World Cup. This could also impact the future relationship between FIFA and the confederations.
Why this matters
The call from UEFA and CONCACAF to FIFA President Gianni Infantino is crucial for the development of football in the member countries. The expected resources will allow national associations to invest in infrastructure and youth programs, which is essential for football's growth in the run-up to the 2026 World Cup. This could also contribute to a stronger representation of these countries on the world stage, especially with the expansion of the tournament.
Key points
- UEFA and CONCACAF demand that Infantino pay almost two billion.
- UEFA and CONCACAF urge FIFA president Gianni Infantino for an immediate payment of at least ten million dollars per association.
- 'UEFA and CONCACAF demand that Infantino release almost two billion euros'.
UEFA and CONCACAF have asked FIFA president Gianni Infantino in a joint letter to release almost two billion euros to the 211 member national associations. According to various British media, which saw the letter, the European and North and Central American confederations want each member state to receive at least ten million dollars. That amount – a total of more than 2.1 billion dollars, equivalent to almost two billion euros – must be used for infrastructure and the further development of football in the countries concerned.
The confederations point out that FIFA is expected to have more than five billion euros in its savings account. According to them, this is "clearly higher than necessary" to remain financially healthy until the next major tournament, the 2030 World Cup. Instead of hoarding resources, UEFA and CONCACAF consider it more effective to redistribute part of the reserves now, so that national associations can carry out concrete projects, from training facilities to youth programs.
The call is not unrelated to the unrest surrounding Infantino's plans earlier this summer. The Swiss then launched the idea of selling part of FIFA shares to private investors. To gain support, large sums were reportedly offered: unions that agreed could receive up to 35 million euros. However, that proposal was quickly withdrawn after strong criticism from several corners of global football. The tight timing also played a role: the payment would only take place if approved before September 19.
Since that controversial proposal, confidence in Infantino has come under further pressure. Several European countries, including the Netherlands, have formally withdrawn their confidence in the FIFA president. Nevertheless, Infantino has put himself forward as a candidate againfor the elections in March 2027. For the time being, he has no opposing candidate.
The letter from UEFA and CONCACAF underlines the broader desire in international football to see available resources trickle down more quickly to the grassroots. With major tournaments and busy international years ahead, the associations emphasize that investments in fields, training and organizational strength now yield the greatest return. The ball is therefore firmly in the FIFA leadership's court: does Zurich choose to strengthen the reserves or directly support the 211 member states? In the latter case, the sports infrastructure in many countries can receive a quality boost in the short term, something from which global football - from grassroots to national selections - can benefit in the coming years.
What's happening now
If FIFA agrees to the request, national associations can quickly start implementing their infrastructure and development plans. This would not only improve the quality of football in these countries, but also strengthen their preparation for the 2026 World Cup. The reactions of the countries involved and the progress of the negotiations will be closely monitored in the coming weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is UEFA and CONCACAF's request to Gianni Infantino?
UEFA and CONCACAF have asked Gianni Infantino to release almost two billion euros to the 211 member national associations.
Who confirmed the request to Infantino?
The request was made by UEFA and CONCACAF in a joint letter, which was seen by various British media.
Why do UEFA and CONCACAF want Infantino to release almost two billion euros now?
They want the resources to be used for infrastructure and the further development of football in the countries concerned, now that FIFA is expected to have more than five billion euros in its savings account.
What changes do UEFA and CONCACAF want to make with this request?
They want to redistribute part of the reserves so that national associations can implement concrete projects, such as training facilities and youth programs.
What is the background to the request to Infantino?
The request is not unrelated to the unrest surrounding Infantino's previous plans to sell FIFA shares to private investors, which led to strong criticism and a loss of confidence in his leadership.
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