The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has joined UEFA and CONCACAF in opposing FIFA's proposed sale of stakes in its competitions to private investors, piling further pressure on plans backed by FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
The AFC's statement on Friday came as a significant blow to FIFA's plans, with the confederation warning that the proposals could not "realistically achieve the necessary broad consensus and unity required to move forward".
FIFA's handling of the process has been criticised by the AFC, with the confederation saying member associations had not been properly consulted before the governing body set the "direction of travel" on such a significant initiative.
The process has exposed "fundamental weaknesses" in FIFA's governance, with confederations, member associations and even the FIFA Council feeling "sidelined", according to the AFC.
The confederation called on FIFA to urgently review its decision-making framework to ensure future proposals are developed through "proper consultation, meaningful engagement and appropriate oversight".
FIFA responded to the criticism on Thursday, saying it respected the concerns raised by stakeholders and remained committed to an "open and democratic consultation process". The governing body also argued that inaccurate media reports had disrupted its planned discussions with confederations and member associations.
With the AFC's opposition, FIFA now faces opposition from three of its six continental confederations, making it increasingly unlikely the proposal would secure the support needed if put to a vote.
The FIFA World Cup is the pinnacle of global football, and any proposal that risks undermining the unity and universal character of the competition must be reconsidered, the AFC said.
The stakes are high for FIFA, which has seen its plans for the World Cup face significant opposition from various stakeholders in recent weeks. The governing body's handling of the process has been under scrutiny, and the AFC's statement is likely to add to the pressure.
FIFA's decision-making framework is now under the spotlight, with the AFC calling for a review to ensure proper consultation and oversight in future proposals. The governing body's response to the criticism will be closely watched in the coming days.
Source: Yahoo Sports