Mansion Sports – 2Reactions continue to emerge after European football's governing body decided to boycott the World Cup in response to FIFA's plan to sell part of its tournament ownership to external investors.

Reuters has compiled some of the most prominent responses to UEFA's decision to boycott FIFA competitions.

The Football Association (FA) issued a firm statement: "We stand shoulder to shoulder with our colleagues across Europe and fully support this united position. We oppose FIFA's plan. The World Cup belongs to football and always will."

The Scottish Football Association Board delivered a similar message: "The Scottish Football Association Board fully shares the concerns expressed by all members regarding the way this proposal was presented and the deadline was imposed, without a comprehensive consultation process or respect for the principles of good governance."

Danish Football Association President Jesper Møller made an even stronger statement: "It is completely inconceivable to approve such an agreement, where we invite private sector investors into the core of FIFA's system. Therefore, we will support every necessary step to stop this project."

Infantino Accused of Crossing the Line

Alexander Wehrle, chairman of the supervisory board of the economic and digital company affiliated with the German Football Association, did not hold back his criticism: "A red line has once again been crossed. Gianni Infantino wants to sell football."

He continued: "It genuinely makes me wonder: has Gianni Infantino ever played football at the professional level? I believe he played in the fifth division in Switzerland."

Wehrle added: "Has he ever stood with the supporters in the stands? Does he truly understand what football means as a game and as a force that brings people together? I seriously doubt it."

He then gave his assessment: "FIFA's primary purpose is to oversee international regulations and organize tournaments. I do not believe that the fundamental principle governing a federation should be maximizing profit. However, it appears that something has gone off course, and it must be stopped."

Calls for Gianni Infantino to Resign

The Swedish Football Association reaffirmed its position through a statement: "The Swedish Football Association supports UEFA's views regarding both the procedure that has been followed and the substance of the issue."

The statement continued: "A proposal with such far-reaching consequences for international football must be handled through an open, transparent process that enjoys broad acceptance."

Norwegian Football Association President Lise Klaveness delivered even stronger criticism. "We cannot accept a process in which a project that changes the very essence of our shared model is developed behind closed doors, outside democratically elected bodies, and then presented as a final decision without any form of consultation," she said.

She continued: "There has been no transparency, participation, or debate. The message from Norway and UEFA is very clear: if this project continues, we will withdraw from FIFA competitions."

UK Secretary of State for Culture, Lisa Nandy, also supported the position. "The decision to carry out a joint boycott with UEFA is based on principles that we fully support. Football belongs to the fans, not billionaire investors. Enough is enough, and now is the time to take a stand to protect our game."

Nigel Farage delivered an even more direct demand. "Football belongs to the people. UEFA is right to take this stand, and Gianni Infantino must resign," the British politician said.