FIFA President Gianni Infantino accused those opposed to changing the frequency of the World Cup to biennial out of fear of change and wanting to keep their high position in the game as Africa backs the plans on Friday.
In a thorough search of federations in Europe and South America who have opposed plans to change the current four-year cycle, Infantino said they don’t want things to change because they’re at their peak. of this sport.
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He was speaking at the African Football Confederation Congress in Cairo, where African countries on Friday unanimously voted on a resolution in favor of a plan to change the hosting of the World Cup to biennial. .
“Those who are against it are the people at the top. It happens in all areas of life when there are reforms and changes, the people at the top don’t want anything to change because they are at the top.” , said Mr. Infantino.
“And they fear that if something changes, their leadership position will be at risk.
“We understand that and we commend and applaud them for being so successful in coming to the top. This is amazing and they are an example to everyone.
“But at the same time, we can’t close the door, we need to keep the door open, we need to give away hope and opportunity.”
Infantino asserted that increasing the frequency of FIFA’s flagship event will bring more opportunities to countries that are not at the top of the world game.
“We need to give more opportunities to world football, for African football to shine on the world stage,” he added.
Infantino said he would continue to consult on his proposal but did not give a timeline for implementation.
UEFA said a new schedule would have a negative impact on the balance between local, national, continental and international competitions.
CONMEBOL, the South American body, said the project “turns its back on the nearly 100-year tradition of world football.”
The World Cup will increase the number of finalists from 32 to 48 at the 2026 edition, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and America
