Andy Burnham criticises Gianni Infantino’s plans for FIFA
Andy Burnham has labelled Gianni Infantino “the wrong man” to continue leading FIFA forward, following the FIFA president’s controversial proposal to sell stakes in competitions to private investors, reports BritPanorama.
The move has met with significant backlash from various sectors beyond football. Speaking to reporters, Burnham described the proposition as “outrageous,” stating, “The idea that it could even be brought forward shows that, in my view, [he] is the wrong man to lead the organisation.”
Burnham has persistently voiced his disapproval of FIFA’s plans, previously condemning the governing body as “sell-outs.” He emphasised that “football does not belong to investors” but rather to “the people who fill the stands and who stand on the touchline week in, week out, rain or shine.” He underscored that the World Cup transcends commercial interests, insisting, “It is the greatest competition in world sport, and it was never anyone’s to sell.”
Earlier, Infantino faced escalating opposition as Carlos Cordeiro, a senior advisor to the FIFA president and former president of US Soccer, announced his immediate resignation. Cordeiro had expressed that he could no longer support FIFA’s new direction. “Let me be clear: I had no involvement in this proposal, and I oppose it unequivocally,” he stated, characterising the deal as detrimental to the long-term future of the game.
FIFA seeks the backing of its 211 member associations for a new commercial entity, FFE, which would have control over the rights to its major tournaments. The intended sale involves a 20 percent stake in the venture, reportedly valued at around $20 billion. Alongside this, UEFA has vowed to boycott future FIFA tournaments, potentially impacting the participation of England and other European nations in the upcoming 2030 tournament, which is set to be co-hosted by Spain and Portugal.
The FA expressed solidarity with UEFA’s stance, asserting in a statement, “We stand shoulder to shoulder with our European colleagues and fully support the collective view. We oppose FIFA’s plans – the FIFA World Cup belongs to football and always will.”
This conflict highlights an ongoing tension between financial interests and the integrity of football, as stakeholders navigate the turbulent waters of corporate influence in the sport. With the stakes higher than ever, the unfolding situation serves as a reminder of the fine line between the business side of football and the values that underpin the game.
