On Wednesday, August 26, 2026, UEFA is set to drop its threat to boycott FIFA tournaments after receiving assurances that plans to sell stakes in the World Cup and other major competitions will not be revived, according to sources aware of the discussions who spoke to Reuters.

This development follows FIFA's decision in July 2026 to withdraw a proposal that had sparked opposition from UEFA's 55 member associations. These associations had agreed to boycott FIFA competitions after details of the plan emerged last month.

UEFA officials are expected to inform the governing body's executive committee and the presidents of most member associations at a meeting in Monaco on Thursday, August 27, that the conditions for lifting the boycott have been met. UEFA had sought both the withdrawal of the proposal and assurances that similar plans would not be pursued again.

A source familiar with the discussions told Reuters, "It's not a UEFA defeat, rather the reality of avoiding hurting young players once in a lifetime opportunity. The actions and insistence on change will continue."

While the immediate threat of a boycott is expected to be lifted, UEFA is likely to continue its campaign against FIFA President Gianni Infantino over the sell-off proposal, the sources said.

Meanwhile, teams are preparing for the FIFA Under-20 Women's World Cup in Poland, scheduled to start on September 5, 2026.

Sources

CNA Latest News