October 17, (THEWILL) – The International Olympic Committee has questioned the value of holding a World Cup every two years and has called for a more extensive consultation with stakeholders.
THEWILL recalls that former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is leading the charge for a World Cup every two years as FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development.
While FIFA claims that there is support for the plan among fans, albeit in a small sample size, the proposal has been widely panned by many in the game.
The proposals will be voted on by member associations in December, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino travelling the world to garner support.
The IOC has now weighed in on the debate, claiming that the proposal would have a negative impact on other sports and that having a men’s World Cup every two years would jeopardize efforts to achieve gender equality in sport.
A statement from the IOC Executive Board read in part: “A number of international federations of other sports, national football federations, clubs, players, player associations and coaches have expressed strong reservations and concerns regarding the plans to generate more revenue for FIFA.
“The IOC shares these concerns and supports the calls of stakeholders of football, international sports federations and major event organisers for a wider consultation, including with athletes’ representatives, which has obviously not taken place.”
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
