Wenger Backs FIFA’s U-Turn On Infantino’s Controversial World Cup Deal

FIFA Chief of Global Football Development, Arsene Wenger, has backed the decision to drop President Gianni Infantino’s controversial plan to sell a stake in the World Cup, describing the move as “absolutely necessary.”

The former Arsenal manager, in a statement on Tuesday, said he was not involved in the proposal and only learnt about it through media reports.

Infantino’s plan to sell 20 per cent of World Cup commercial rights to private equity investors through FIFA Forward Enterprise had faced strong opposition from several football bodies, including UEFA.

Wenger said he believes FIFA must remain independent and serve football with transparency and integrity, as pressure continues to mount on Infantino ahead of his re-election bid.

The FIFA president is expected to contest for a final term in March and needs 106 votes from the 211 member associations to retain his position.