The AFC has joined Uefa and Concacaf in opposing Fifa's plan for a new commercial entity, calling for an urgent review of the organization's governance.

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has formally backed opposition to Fifa’s proposed commercial company, Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE). The AFC joined Uefa and Concacaf in criticizing the plan, which has sparked threats of a potential boycott of Fifa competitions. Fifa continues to insist it will proceed with its consultation process, despite facing unified opposition from confederations representing a majority of its member associations.

Confederations Demand Governance Review

In a statement released Friday, the AFC argued that the FFE proposal lacks the necessary consensus and unity to proceed. The organization urged Fifa to conduct an urgent review of its decision-making framework, citing a recurring lack of consultation on major issues, including the hosting arrangements for the 2030 and 2034 World Cups. The AFC emphasized that the current situation, which includes the public discussion of a potential World Cup boycott, threatens the unity of the sport. Fifa maintains that the FFE is intended to provide member associations with commercial opportunities in their respective countries without compromising the governance of the sport. Fifa leadership stated that the consultation process was disrupted by incorrect media reports and emphasized that no single entity represents all 211 member associations.

Potential Impact on Future Tournaments

The coalition of Uefa, Concacaf, and the AFC represents 143 of Fifa’s 211 member associations, creating a significant hurdle for president Gianni Infantino. If the coalition remains unified, the proposal may lack the required votes to pass. Should Fifa refuse to alter its course, the first potential impact of a European-led boycott could occur at the Under-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland next month, followed by senior Women’s World Cup qualifiers in October.