Women's U20 World Cup boycott may hurt but sends Fifa message
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The gist
Women's U20 World Cup faces boycott threat over FIFA governance. The move could pressure FIFA president Gianni Infantino amid reform calls.
Background
FIFA president Gianni Infantino is under pressure after a failed plan to sell stakes in the World Cup, which federations called a 'fundamental breach of trust'. Women's teams are considering boycotting upcoming youth tournaments to push for reforms, including better representation and prize money. The threat comes as Infantino faces calls to resign from some officials, while others, including US President Trump, support him.
How it unfolded
- Mar 2023Infantino re-elected as FIFA president.
- Aug 2023Infantino's 'pick the right battles' speech at Women's World Cup draws criticism.
- Aug 8, 2026UEFA confirms payout to ex-employee amid Infantino affair allegations.
- Aug 11, 2026Trump warns against replacing Infantino; federations publish open letter criticizing his World Cup sale plan.
- Aug 13, 2026Malawi FA chief backs Infantino, crediting FIFA for World Cup debut.
- recentlyThreat of boycott looms over Women's U20 World Cup in September.
Who’s saying what
- Support
- Malawi FA chief Fleetwood Haiya says Infantino's investment in African football led to their World Cup qualification, so he likely enjoys continental support.
- Caution
- UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy says she would not support a boycott because it unfairly penalizes athletes not responsible for the dispute.
- Official
- UEFA and other federations say Infantino's World Cup sale plan was a 'fundamental breach of trust' and threaten boycotts.
- Analysts
- The Guardian argues a boycott, though painful short-term, could send a vital message to FIFA and force reforms.
Still unverified
Allegations of an affair between Infantino and a former UEFA employee, reported by The Telegraph, are denied by Infantino and unconfirmed.