UEFA, Concacaf, AFC accuse FIFA of 'breach of trust,' 'deception' over World Cup plan - ESPN

UEFA, Concacaf and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) have accused FIFA of a «fundamental breach of trust» and «deception» over its handling of plans to sell a stake in the World Cup, saying that the episode raises serious questions about the integrity of football's leadership.

In an «open letter to the football family» revealed on Monday, the three confederations took aim at FIFA president Gianni Infantino, saying the process represented a «profound failure of judgment» and accusing him of acting like someone who «believes the game is answerable to him.»

«This is about something more fundamental: the integrity of the game, and the integrity of those elected to lead it,» the joint statement, signed by the heads of the confederations, read.

«Leadership in football is not a possession. It is not about holding — or demanding — power to be held. It is a duty of service to the football family that entrusts it.

»When trust is broken through deception, when an individual places himself above the collective that entrusted him with authority, that duty has been abandoned."

The Press Association understands that the three confederations have also held initial talks about organising competitions themselves amid the backlash against Infantino.

While it is understood they want to give Infantino the chance to resign and leave his position with dignity without seeking re-election in March next year, the three bodies want to insulate themselves from the unfolding crisis.

UEFA has previously threatened a boycott of FIFA competitions and PA understands that its decision to hold preliminary discussions with AFC and CONCACAF about coordinating their own tournaments is to make sure the players under their jurisdictions have meaningful