Brussels: UEFA on Tuesday criticized a reported plan by FIFA President Gianni Infantino to sell stakes in the FIFA World Cup to private investors, stating that football's governance is "not FIFA's to sell."

According to Anadolu Agency, The Times newspaper reported that Infantino was planning to sell stakes in the tournament to private investors. The report claimed he had held talks with investors close to US President Donald Trump's administration and warned the move could have a 'devastating' impact on football.

The report further mentioned that each of FIFA's 211 member associations would likely receive a stake worth about £15 million ($20 million). The associations would have the option to keep the stake or sell it to generate income.

Additionally, the report cited sources suggesting that Infantino was preparing to lead the company as commissioner after his final term as FIFA president. It indicated he was expected to be re-elected unopposed through 2031.

In response, UEFA released a statement asserting that the reported plan crossed "a line that football's governing institutions should never cross."

"UEFA takes it extremely seriously. So should every National Football Association. So should every stakeholder: leagues, clubs, players, supporters, governments and everyone who cares about the future of the game," the organization stated.

UEFA emphasized, "The soul and governance of football are not assets to trade - especially with zero transparency as to who gains financially. None of us are the owners of football. It is not FIFA's to sell."