World Cup sell-off: UEFA to file criminal complaint against Infantino

UEFA plans to file a criminal complaint against FIFA president Gianni Infantino, alleging financial mismanagement and possible fraud in the sale of future World Cup profits. According to UEFA's 56-page document, the $4.2 billion figure for the sale was reportedly a fraudulent price set by Infantino for his own benefit. The complaint asserts that Infantino and a select group of advisers and investors devised the plan over a year without consulting FIFA's top decision-makers, including the Council and member associations.

UEFA claims FIFA statutes grant the Council exclusive authority over how commercial rights are promoted. Infantino reportedly appointed Thrive Eternal, an investment vehicle controlled by Joshua Kushner, as the lead investor. Greg Maffei, formerly CEO of Liberty Media, was also brought in as a commercial adviser. UEFA believes the investors sought to gain a permanent financial stake in FIFA's commercial arm.

The European federation had previously threatened to boycott FIFA tournaments, but has since secured assurances that the previous plan will not be revived. FIFA welcomed the resolution, stating all qualified teams will participate in the upcoming Under-20 Women's World Cup in Poland.