Uefa to hold emergency meeting over Fifa World Cup plans

UEFA will hold an emergency meeting on Thursday afternoon to discuss its response to the World Cup stakeholder plans proposed by FIFA and its president, Gianni Infantino. UEFA stated, "We have learned of Fifa's deadline to associations to support their proposals or have the one-off payout offer withdrawn. This says everything you need to know about this plan." FIFA sent a letter to all 211 member associations, giving them until September 19 to decide if they want to accept a deal, which includes the first $20m (£15m) of an initial $40m (£30m).

The meeting will be held virtually. UEFA's first statement on the issue claimed FIFA had "crossed a line." Many associations, including the Football Association, are furious at learning of the proposal to sell a 20% stake in FIFA competitions to private finance, led by the Thrive Eternal investment vehicle owned by Joshua Kushner, through the media. FA chairwoman Debbie Hewitt was among the FIFA vice-presidents not given advance warning. UEFA's unease has been echoed by the Asian, South American, and North and Central American Confederations. Former FA and Manchester City chairman David Bernstein said England must "withdraw" from the World Cup if Infantino's proposals go through. Three of the 2026 World Cup semi-finalists are among UEFA's 55 members.