By Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw
It has been reported that FIFA, the World Governing Body of Football, has plans to expand football development funding, through private investment, in its competitions, including the World Cup, to more than US$10 billion (around €8.7 billion), which it claims is to grow the game.
These plans are, of course, subject to the approval of its 211 member associations.
UEFA, the Governing Body of European Football, has reacted unfavourably to the plans, stating that:
"This crosses a line that football's governing institutions should never cross."
And adds that:
" None of us are the owners of football. [The World Cup] is not Fifa's to sell."
It has also been reported that the plans could potentially earn Gianni Infantino, the President of FIFA, tens of millions of dollars.
Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw may be contacted by e-mail at ‘