European nations decided to boycott the World Cup over Fifa's proposals to sell private stakes in its major competitions, the Financial Times reported on July 30, 2026. The plan centers on a new commercial venture Fifa values at $20 billion, with a stake in that entity to be sold to outside investors.
Uefa and its 55 member associations held an emergency meeting on July 29, 2026, to discuss the proposals, BBC News reported. A World Cup boycott was among the topics raised at that gathering. The Football Association said it is concerned by Fifa's plans.
According to the Financial Times, the boycott threat deals a major blow to Fifa's efforts to sell a stake in the new venture.