Uefa to boycott World Cup if Fifa plans approved

Uefa’s 55 member associations have voted to boycott the World Cup if Fifa proceeds with its plan to sell stakes in its competitions to private investors.

The decision was made at an emergency meeting on Thursday to discuss the proposals announced by Fifa – world football’s governing body – on Tuesday.

Uefa, which governs European football, had made its opposition clear by releasing two damning statements about the plans – and that strength of feeling has now been reaffirmed.

The boycott would cover all Fifa competitions, including the men’s and women’s World Cups and Club World Cup, and be triggered if Fifa president Gianni Infantino’s proposals are voted through by member associations.

The first time this stance will be tested is October, when the Women’s World Cup play-offs are due to be held.

More to follow.