London, England – Media reports have revealed mounting pressure on FIFA President Gianni Infantino following UEFA’s announcement that it will boycott the next edition of the men’s and women’s World Cup tournaments.
UEFA had announced earlier today that its 55 member associations had unanimously agreed not to participate in the upcoming World Cup tournaments, in protest against FIFA’s plan to bring private investors into the ownership and management of some of its tournaments, stressing in its statement that “the World Cup is not for sale”.
According to English journalist Ben Jacobs, the European Club Association fully supports UEFA’s position, while other continental federations are considering taking similar steps, which could widen the boycott in the coming period.
Jacobs explained, via his account on the “X” platform, that the current crisis has put Infantino under unprecedented pressure, noting that the controversy surrounding his decisions may turn into a real test of the extent to which he continues to enjoy support within the global football family.
🚨 Understand it is highly likely other confederations also decide to follow UEFA and boycott the World Cup.
Gianni Infantino could be left in an untenable position.
UEFA sources have told @talkSPORT Infantino's plans are essentially "a vote of confidence or no confidence ahead… pic.twitter.com/jUGdh4yfrX
— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) July 30, 2026He added that developments in the crisis could cast a shadow over the upcoming FIFA presidential elections, as voices within football circles may rise demanding that Infantino not run for another term, given the division caused by his project for the future of the international federation’s tournaments.
