Women’s football finds itself at a critical juncture as the FIFA president, Gianni Infantino, faces backlash over his controversial proposal to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors. This plan, met with fierce resistance from UEFA, threatens to jeopardize the integrity of the sport, particularly women's competitions.

In a decisive move, UEFA stated that European national teams would not participate in any FIFA competition while these proposals exist, demanding a complete abandonment of them. This declaration signifies a significant stand against Infantino, especially with key tournaments such as the Under-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland and the Women’s World Cup in Brazil approaching.

Had a boycott proceeded, it could have had catastrophic consequences for women’s football, which is heavily reliant on international competition for growth. The 2023 Women’s World Cup broke even with over $570 million in revenue, and FIFA aims for $1 billion by 2027. The absence of a World Cup would set back progress significantly.

Despite Infantino's claims of progress in women's football, his actions paint a different picture. His brief attendance at the Women’s World Cup and extensive presence at the men’s tournaments raise questions about his commitment. Jill Ellis, FIFA’s chief football officer, acknowledged Infantino's investments but emphasized the need for genuine dedication beyond rhetoric.

This situation serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against private finance’s encroachment into football. The fallout from Infantino’s proposals highlights the necessity for vigilance in protecting the future of both women's and men's games.