First nation supports Gianni Infantino's plan to sell the World Cup

Gianni Infantino has received backing from the Czech Republic over FIFA’s plan to sell parts of the World Cup (EPA)

The president of the Czech Republic’s football association has backed FIFA president Gianni Infantino over his World Cup sell-off plan.

Infantino has unveiled a proposal to sell stakes in the World Cup by setting up a new company called FIFA Forward Enterprise, which would oversee commercial rights for every tournament.

FIFA’s 211 member associations have been promised windfalls of up to $40 million (£30.1m) each if they agree to the proposal by the September 19 deadline.

The proposal has faced widespread criticism due to concerns over the influence of private investment into the new company – FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) – which has been set up to deal with the commercial operations at future World Cup tournaments.

UEFA has hit out at Infantino’s plan, claiming that ‘the soul and governance of football are not assets to trade’ and that the World Cup ‘is not FIFA’s to sell’.

However, David Trunda, who was elected as president of the Czech Republic’s FA last year, believes Infantino’s proposal will help provide additional funding for developing football in his country.

Gianni Infantino is planning to raise extra revenue by inviting private companies to invest in the World Cup (AFP via Getty)

‘I can see the pragmatic benefits for Czech football from working in close co-operation with Gianni Infantino and his team,’ Trunda said.

‘Of course we need more details, but my personal point of view is that I can see the positive impact of FIFA’s intentions.

‘I was elected a little more than a year ago, and for me personally all the projects I have experienced in cooperation with FIFA have been very positive for the development of European football.’

The Czech Republic participated at the World Cup this summer but finished bottom of Group A following defeats to Mexico and South Korea and a draw against South Africa.

In a new statement on Wednesday, UEFA said: ‘Today we have learned of FIFA’s deadline to associations to support their proposals or have the one-off payout offer withdrawn. This says everything you need to know about this plan.

‘But having held discussions with many stakeholders across the game, UEFA knows there is significant and growing opposition to FIFA’s scheme. FIFA cannot continue to use our sport to enrich themselves and their friends. We can grow the game correctly. It’s time to prioritise associations, clubs, leagues, players and fans.’

In a letter sent to FIFA’s member associations, Infantino vowed that a $10 billion (£7.5bn) funding package would be available if the new World Cup plan is approved, but that figure would drop to $2.7bn (£2bn) if it is rejected.

‘It is my duty and responsibility as FIFA president to present such game-changing opportunities to you, our members,’ Infantino wrote in the letter.

‘Should you wish to proceed this $10 billion package will become available as of January 1, 2027, ushering in the next phase of our journey together.

‘Should you wish to retain the status quo and reject this proposal we still have our planned expansion of the Forward programme [development money] of $2.7 billion as previously presented.

‘In total for the upcoming cycle starting as of January 1, 2027 each member association will have the possibility of access up to $40 million per member association under this proposal.’

UEFA is now planning an emergency meeting with its 55 member associations this week to discuss the proposal.