Story perspectives

Infantino Cancels 20% World Cup Stake Sale Amid UEFA Boycott

8/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

FIFA President Gianni Infantino cancelled the planned 20 % World Cup stake sale to investors led by Joshua Kushner’s Thrive Eternal.
Infantino offered each of FIFA’s 211 members a payment of $20 million, up to $40 million, by September 19.
UEFA’s 55 members voted to boycott FIFA tournaments while CONCACAF and AFC rejected the plan.
Carlos Cordeiro resigned, prompting a controversy that threatens Infantino’s March re-election after the 2026 World Cup generated $15 billion.

History

Historical Context

During May 2015 the FBI accused several FIFA executives, prompting Swiss police arrests at Zürich’s Hotel Baur au Lac. Interpol issued a June 2 warrant for José Margulies, who in November 2015 pleaded guilty, forfeiting over $9.2 million. His April 2016 testimony and a 2020 two-year probation sentence illustrate the case’s lasting impact on football governance within global sport.

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Story summary

FIFA President Gianni Infantino cancelled the planned 20 % World Cup stake sale to investors led by Joshua Kushner’s Thrive Eternal.
Infantino offered each of FIFA’s 211 members a payment of $20 million, up to $40 million, by September 19.
UEFA’s 55 members voted to boycott FIFA tournaments while CONCACAF and AFC rejected the plan.
Carlos Cordeiro resigned, prompting a controversy that threatens Infantino’s March re-election after the 2026 World Cup generated $15 billion.

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