Soccer governing bodies CONMEBOL and UEFA have already voiced their opposition to FIFA’s proposal of moving the World Cup from a quadrennial to biennial event, but now more than a dozen European nations are reportedly considering quitting FIFA altogether in a last-resort protest.
UEFA says FIFA hasn’t been able to “demonstrate the benefits” of hosting the World Cup every two years.
The IOC has opposed FIFA’s plan, too — a 2028 World Cup would take place shortly ahead of the Los Angeles Olympics, potentially affecting sponsorships.
An IOC executive commented on the strain additional world-stage events could have on athletes.
Adidas CEO Kasper Rørsted voiced his own opposition. The company is the official soccer ball supplier for the World Cup until 2030.
There will likely be a meeting with all 211 FIFA member nations in December to make a decision, according to ESPN.
FIFA earned $6.4 billion in revenue between 2017 and 2020, more than 70% of which came from the 2018 World Cup. Qatar, the 2022 World Cup host, expects a $20 billion economic boost.
If the member nations decide to leave FIFA, they’ll still be able to play in European competitions.