Two women led the resistance to Infantino’s World Cup sell-off. That matters

At an emergency meeting of UEFA, European football’s governing body, two women took the lead in voicing demands to boycott FIFA competitions in response to FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s plan to sell stakes in key competitions. Laura McAllister, a vice president and former international footballer from Wales, and Lise Klaveness, the president of the Norwegian Football Federation and the only other woman on UEFA's executive committee, were the chief advocates for taking bold action.

The fact that these two women were the ones to initiate and lead the call for a full boycott amidst an existential threat to football's future highlights the critical importance of having women in decision-making positions within the sport. McAllister and Klaveness, both former international players and respected leaders, have used their insider knowledge and experiences to champion ethical standards and gender equality in football governance.

Their efforts, which have faced significant opposition and challenges, demonstrate the resilience and determination of women breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated environment. As football grapples with numerous moral dilemmas, the influence and impact of McAllister and Klaveness as ethical compasses in the sport cannot be understated.