Latvia's football federation speaks out against Infantino's plans to sell tournament rights

The Latvian Football Federation (LFF) released a statement late on Friday expressing opposition to FIFA president Gianni Infantino's plan to sell the commercial rights of major tournaments, including the World Cup, to private investors. The federation acknowledged that it had previously supported Infantino's candidacy and held a positive view of the World Cup, but said it could not accept the proposal that emerged unexpectedly after the tournament. LFF stressed its unity with fellow UEFA associations and full support for the collective decision.

UEFA had already strongly objected to the idea, warning that European national teams would boycott future competitions, starting with the 2027 Women's World Cup. Similar positions were taken by the confederations of North America and Asia.

Infantino's plan involves selling the commercial rights, or profits, of FIFA's major tournaments for 20 billion dollars. In return for supporting votes, football federations were promised 20 million. The proposal has caused widespread outrage in the football community, with critics describing it as selling football itself. Infantino has argued that only a portion would be sold and that FIFA would retain a controlling stake.

During the 2026 World Cup, FIFA reportedly earned 15 billion before expenses. People close to US President Donald Trump are also said to be close to a deal to acquire the commercial rights.