Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has voiced strong opposition to FIFA’s proposal to allow private investors to own a stake in the commercial operations of the FIFA World Cup, insisting that football should always remain a game for the people.
The former Spain international, who won the 2010 FIFA World Cup, shared his opinion while speaking during Chelsea’s pre-season tour in Sydney, Australia.
According to Alonso, football’s global appeal comes from its authenticity and the emotional connection fans have with the sport. He believes introducing private ownership into the World Cup’s business structure could threaten those values.
“Football has to be for the people, not in private hands,” Alonso said, adding that the game should remain accessible and protected for everyone who loves it.
His comments come after FIFA revealed plans to create a commercial subsidiary that would oversee the business side of its biggest tournaments, including the World Cup. Under the proposal, private investors could purchase stakes in the new company, with FIFA claiming the move could generate as much as $4.2 billion.
However, the proposal has sparked criticism across European football.
UEFA has already warned that it could boycott the FIFA World Cup if the plan goes ahead. The European football governing body argues that decisions about the future of football should not be driven primarily by investors seeking financial returns.
Alonso echoed similar concerns, saying he hopes the proposal never becomes reality.
He stressed that football’s greatest strength lies in its ability to unite people across the world, pointing to competitions like the FIFA World Cup, UEFA Champions League, and the English Premier League as examples of tournaments that inspire passion because they belong to everyone.
The proposal will still need approval from FIFA’s 38-member Council as well as a majority of its 211 member associations before it can be implemented.
Away from the controversy, Alonso has already begun life as Chelsea manager on a positive note. His side defeated Western Sydney Wanderers 6-4 in his first match in charge and are set to face Tottenham Hotspur in another pre-season fixture in Sydney.
Source: AFP
