European football governing body UEFA has strongly criticised FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s reported plan to sell stakes linked to the World Cup, warning that such a move could threaten the principles and governance structure of global football. In a statement issued in response to the proposal, UEFA said the plan crosses a boundary that football’s governing institutions should not approach. The reaction follows reports that FIFA is considering creating a new commercial venture that would allow private investors to acquire stakes connected to major competitions, including the FIFA World Cup. “The soul and governance of football are not assets to trade, especially with zero transparency as to who gains financially,” UEFA said. The disagreement has opened another chapter in the growing tension between FIFA and UEFA over the future direction of football.