UEFA maintains boycott of FIFA World Cups
The short version
UEFA has announced that it will maintain its boycott of the FIFA World Cups. The Confederation of African Football has reaffirmed its support for Gianni Infantino.
UEFA issued a statement on 6 August 2026 confirming that its boycott of FIFA competitions, including the World Cups, remained in force.6,5 This boycott persists despite the abandonment by FIFA of the controversial project to open up to private investors, initially led by Gianni Infantino.7,6,5 The Confederation of African Football (CAF) issued a statement on 6 August 2026 unanimously reaffirming its support for Gianni Infantino.8
The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) has expressed concern over FIFA's repeated unilateral actions.7 Gianni Infantino held a crisis meeting in Rabat on 5 August 2026 with senior FIFA officials, according to RFI.4 This meeting took place behind closed doors, with no access for the press.4
Media reported that Gianni Infantino allegedly promised Morocco the hosting of the 2030 World Cup final in exchange for public support.3 The project to open up to private investors was abandoned by FIFA under pressure from critics.7,4 Gianni Infantino is running for re-election to the presidency of FIFA, scheduled for March 2027.1
Gianni Infantino's isolation increased after Arsene Wenger withdrew his support on August 5, 2026.2 The hypothesis of a resignation of Gianni Infantino remains evoked against the backdrop of the crisis.2
Why it matters
FIFA is the International Federation of Association Football, the governing body of world football, based in Zurich.7,6
UEFA is the Union of European Football Associations, which organises continental competitions such as the Euro and oversees the European national federations.6,5
The project to open up to private investors aimed to commercialise some of the rights to the World Cup, sparking criticism over its impact on sports integrity.7,6,4
This account was written from the 8 reports listed below, filed by 5 independent outlets, and checked against them line by line. It is not a copy of any one of them. Spotted an error? Tell us.
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