Arsène Wenger welcomes the abandonment of the controversial project
By OnzeActu · · 5 min read
Arsène Wenger, as director of global development at FIFA, has welcomed President Gianni Infantino's decision to abandon his controversial plan to sell World Cup rights. This proposal, initially intended to rethink the economic model of the premier football competition, sparked strong criticism from the international community. The abandonment of the project is seen as a return to a more traditional and prudent management of the World Cup, guaranteeing its sporting integrity.
Why it matters
The abandonment of the plan to sell the rights to the World Cup by Gianni Infantino is crucial to preserve the integrity of this emblematic event of world football. As director of development at FIFA, Arsène Wenger emphasizes the importance of maintaining a traditional economic model that respects sporting values and the independence of the competition. This decision could also strengthen the confidence of national federations and fans in the management of FIFA.
Key points
- Arsène Wenger welcomes the abandonment of the controversial project.
- Arsène Wenger, as FIFA's director of global development, has welcomed President Gianni Infantino's decision to abandon his controversial plan to sell World Cup rights.
- Arsene Wenger breaks silence on Gianni Infantino’s failed World Cup sell-off plan.
particularly in the context of the 2026 World Cup which will be played in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The abandoned plan was to allow external investors or private consortiums to acquire a substantial part of the commercial or media rights to the tournament, in exchange for a colossal sum. Such an idea was initially intended to quickly free up resources to support other FIFA projects and modernize the competition. However, the project had generated significant discontent, both among certain members of the FIFA Council and among many national federations and players in world football, who saw it as a threat to the integrity and independence of the World Cup.
Arsène Wenger's reaction fits into this context. A respected figure in world football, the former Arsenal coach initially stayed away from public debate, preferring to wait for the final direction of the case. Following the official announcement of the withdrawal by President Infantino, Wenger welcomed a decision which he said was in the best interests of world football and the preservation of the unique character of the World Cup. The latter remains the most prestigious international competition, attracting the attention of billions of viewers each edition.
FIFA is therefore moving towards maintaining the centralized and traditional management of the World Cup, preserving control of its main assets and ensuring a more equitable redistribution of income among member federations. This decision is also a signal sent to various football stakeholders and supporters regarding the preservation of sporting values, in a period marked by economic upheavals and challenges to certain historical models.
Debates around the financing and marketing of major international competitions should nevertheless continue in the years to come, particularly in the run-up to the 2026 World Cup, which already promises to be historic in terms of the number of participating teams and the scale of the organizational system in three host countries.
The rest
With the abandonment of this project, FIFA could focus on initiatives that support the development of football at all levels, particularly in view of the 2026 World Cup. The financial resources released could be redirected towards training and development programs for young talents, essential for the future of world football. Arsène Wenger's positive reaction could also encourage other football leaders to engage in constructive discussions about the future of the competition.
Frequently asked questions
What was abandoned by Gianni Infantino?
Gianni Infantino has abandoned a controversial proposal to sell World Cup rights.
Who welcomed Infantino's decision?
Arsène Wenger welcomed Infantino's decision to abandon the project.
Why has this project been abandoned now?
The project was abandoned due to discontent generated among members of the FIFA Council and many national federations.
What changes were envisaged by
the abandoned project?
The project aimed to allow external investors to acquire part of the commercial or media rights to the World Cup.
What was the initial objective of the rights sale proposal?
The initial objective was to free up resources to support other FIFA projects and modernize the competition.
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