The Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (Concacaf) has formally rejected FIFA’s proposal to sell stakes in the commercial rights of the FIFA World Cup to private investors.
The decision was reached after representatives of all 41 Concacaf member associations met on Thursday to deliberate on the proposal, making the regional football body the latest to oppose the plan.
According to sources familiar with the discussions, several delegates expressed concerns over FIFA’s leadership under President Gianni Infantino, with some reportedly saying they were losing confidence in the organisation’s direction.
Another source cited concerns about FIFA’s governance, transparency and decision-making process.
In a statement issued after the meeting, Concacaf confirmed that all 41 of its member associations had unanimously voted to reject the proposal.
The decision follows a similar position taken by UEFA, whose 55 member associations recently warned they would boycott FIFA competitions if the proposal proceeds.
Explaining its position, Concacaf said member associations were concerned about the lack of due process surrounding the proposal, the short timeline provided for consideration and the absence of review by FIFA’s relevant governance bodies.
The confederation also questioned the need for private equity investment following what it described as the most profitable FIFA World Cup in history.
“The discussion reinforced the need for greater transparency and proper governance,” the statement said.
“For these reasons, Concacaf and its 41 Member Associations have rejected the proposal.”
FIFA has defended the initiative, stating that the proposal seeks to establish a FIFA-owned commercial subsidiary capable of attracting long-term capital and commercial expertise while ensuring that ownership, control and governance of the FIFA World Cup remain fully with the global football governing body.