The Scottish FA has agreed “unequivocally” with UEFA’s decision to boycott the World Cup until FIFA drops its controversial plans to sell stakes in its competitions to private investors.
The game’s global governing body sent shockwaves through the world of football with its radical proposals, triggering outrage among the European nations.
SFA president Mike Mulraney and chief executive Ian Maxwell attended a remote meeting of UEFA to discuss their position, during which they made clear they position.
A statement from Hampden Park said: “The Scottish FA Board agrees unequivocally with the concerns raised by all (UEFA) members over the manner in which these proposals have been issued, and deadline set, without a full consultation process or consideration to good governance.
“The Board is fully supportive of the statement issued by UEFA following the meeting.
“We are also aligned with our fellow national associations who seek to ensure our collective voice is heard resoundingly, and that the Corinthian spirit which underpins the beautiful game – invented here in Scotland and shared with the world – is protected.”
The controversial FIFA proposals revealed by president Gianni Infantino said its 211 member associations would receive $40m (£30m) under plans to create a commercial subsidiary to run its main events, including the World Cup. A deadline of September 19 was set for those wishing to access an initial $20m (£15m).
A statement from UEFA said: “No UEFA national teams will participate in any FIFA competition for so long as these proposals remain alive, unless this proposal has been abandoned in its entirety and binding assurances have been given that FIFA will never again open its governance or competitions to private ownership.
“UEFA and its 55 member associations stand as one. We unanimously and unequivocally reject FIFA’s proposal to transfer ownership interests in the World Cup and other FIFA competitions to private investors.
“The World Cup cannot be treated as an investment product. It is one of football’s greatest sporting legacies. It has been built over generations by players, national teams and supporters across every continent. No part of it should ever be surrendered to private investors. The World Cup is not for sale.”
#Scottish #join #UEFAs #World #Cup #boycott #Daily #Business