UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has called on FIFA president Gianni Infantino to resign amid growing opposition to plans to sell a stake in the World Cup to a private equity group. Burnham, who became Britains Prime Minister earlier this month, described the proposal as an outrageous suggestion as pressure continues to mount on Infantino following criticism from footballs continental governing bodies.UEFA, CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) have all rejected the proposal, while UEFAs 55 member associations have agreed to boycott FIFA competitions for as long as the plans remain active.That would see major footballing nations including England, Germany, France and reigning world champions Spain refuse to compete in both the mens and womens World Cups unless the proposal is withdrawn.Burnham speaks outSpeaking on Friday, Burnham became the first leader of a major nation to publicly call for Infantino to step down.My view is strengthening this was an outrageous suggestion, Burnham said.The idea that it could even be brought forward, in my view, shows that the FIFA president is the wrong man to lead the organisation.The Labour leader had already criticised the proposal earlier this week, insisting football should never be treated as a commercial asset.Let me say this very directly. Football does not belong to investors. It belongs to the people who fill the stands and who stand on the touchline week in, week out, rain or shine, Burnham wrote on social media.The World Cup is not a product. It is the greatest competition in world sport, and it was never anyones to sell. Dress the deal up however you like. Once you have sold a piece of it, you have sold out.Football belongs to the fans. It always has, and it always will. Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read BREAKING: Eddie Howe breaks silence on Newcastle exit privilege of my lifetime Ben Miller 31st July, 2026 BREAKING: Chelsea winger Mudryk free to play after FA and WADA agreement Jon Fisher 31st July, 2026 Real Madrid vs Fiorentina: Line-ups, stats and preview for pre-season clash Mitch Fretton 31st July, 2026 Commonwealth Games 2026: Schedule, medal tally, points table, TV channel and where to watch live online stream of Glasgow sporting spectacular Ben Miller 31st July, 2026 Birmingham City vs Barcelona: Line-ups, stats and preview Ben Miller 31st July, 2026 Chelsea hit with FA fine and transfer sanctions after breaching agent rules Mitch Fretton 31st July, 2026
