UEFA is considering a boycott of FIFA tournaments as a dispute between football’s two most powerful governing bodies deepens.

According to a person familiar with the matter, UEFA has discussed how its member associations and clubs could respond to FIFA’s plans to seek private investment. The talks include the possibility of boycotting FIFA events such as the World Cup and the Club World Cup.

UEFA declined to comment on the discussions. FIFA did not respond to requests for comment.

FIFA Investment Plans Spark Concern

The latest clash follows FIFA’s proposal to place major commercial and tournament operations into a new company valued at $20 billion.

FIFA said the proposed company, FIFA Forward Enterprise, would remain under its control. Investors would only be allowed to buy minority, non-controlling stakes.

The governing body believes the venture could raise to $4.2 billion. FIFA says the money would help fund infrastructure projects, coaching programmes, grassroots football and women’s football across its 211 member associations.

However, UEFA fears private investment could give FIFA greater influence over national associations and clubs.

UEFA Issues Strong Warning

On Tuesday, UEFA criticised FIFA’s plans in a strongly worded statement.

“This crosses a line that football’s governing institutions should never cross,” UEFA said.

“UEFA takes it extremely seriously. So should every National Football Association. So should every stakeholder: leagues, clubs, players, supporters, governments and everyone who cares about the future of the game.”

The comments highlight growing concern within European football over FIFA’s expanding role in the sport.

Club World Cup Adds to Tensions

Relations between UEFA and FIFA have been strained for years. The situation has worsened as FIFA has expanded into areas traditionally dominated by UEFA.

One major flashpoint is the enlarged Club World Cup. The tournament, held in 2025, featured 32 teams and a $1 billion prize pool.

The competition is seen as a direct rival to the UEFA Champions League, one of the most profitable tournaments in football.

Concerns Over Player Workload

Another issue is the growing number of matches players must play each season.

Player unions have repeatedly warned about fixture congestion. Clubs have also raised concerns. They argue that more international tournaments increase the risk of fatigue and injuries.

Adding to the criticism, UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham said in a social media post that “football does not belong to investors. It belongs to the people who fill the stands and who stand on the touchline week in, week out, rain or shine.”