The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has become the latest continental football body to oppose FIFA’s controversial proposal to sell stakes in its competitions to private investors.
In a statement released on Friday, the AFC said it stands “in solidarity” with UEFA and Concacaf, arguing that the proposal cannot achieve the broad consensus needed to move forward.
The confederation warned that the World Cup draws strength from the participation of all football regions and leading national teams. It added that any proposal capable of undermining the competition’s unity and global character should be reconsidered.
The AFC also criticised FIFA for failing to properly consult member associations before unveiling the proposal. According to the confederation, the governing body once again set the “direction of travel” without engaging key stakeholders.
It said the lack of consultation exposed significant weaknesses in FIFA’s decision-making process and governance structure.
The statement further claimed that member associations, continental confederations and even FIFA’s own governing bodies, including the FIFA Council, had been sidelined during the development of the proposal.
As a result, the AFC called on FIFA to urgently review its governance framework. It urged the body to ensure that future proposals are developed through proper consultation, and oversight by its statutory bodies.
The AFC’s opposition adds to growing resistance against the proposal and significantly weakens its chances of securing approval. Especially if put to a vote among FIFA’s member associations.
Earlier this week, UEFA announced that its 55 member associations would boycott future FIFA competitions if the investment plan is adopted. CONCACAF also voiced strong concerns over the proposal, citing similar issues surrounding governance and transparency.
The latest development leaves FIFA facing mounting opposition from three of football’s six continental confederations.
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