FIFA President Gianni Infantino is facing one of the most serious challenges of his decade-long leadership after football’s world governing body abandoned a controversial proposal to sell a stake in the commercial rights of its major competitions following widespread opposition from global football organisations.

The decision comes after several confederations, led by UEFA, criticised the plan and warned of far-reaching consequences for the sport.

The proposal would have placed the commercial management of the FIFA World Cup and other tournaments into a new entity, with a 20% stake offered to private investors.

FIFA argued the deal would unlock billions of dollars in new revenue for its 211 member associations, but critics said the plan lacked transparency and risked placing commercial interests ahead of football governance.

Facing mounting resistance, FIFA withdrew the proposal on Friday. Reuters reported that senior adviser Carlos Cordeiro resigned during the dispute, while UEFA declared it had lost confidence in Infantino’s leadership after accusing FIFA of failing to consult stakeholders adequately.

The latest controversy follows growing scrutiny of Infantino’s presidency, including criticism over governance, commercial expansion and decision-making.

Although FIFA has reported record revenues in recent years, analysts say the failed proposal has weakened Infantino’s standing ahead of the next presidential election, with potential challengers now expected to emerge.

For Pacific football associations, including those within the Oceania Football Confederation, the debate highlights the balance between securing greater financial support and preserving the independence of the global game. FIFA has yet to indicate whether an alternative commercial strategy will be pursued.