Lib Dems call for FA and UEFA to quit FIFA over corruption allegations

The Liberal Democrats have called for the English Football Association and UEFA to withdraw from FIFA, accusing the global governing body of corruption and prioritizing corporate interests over fan welfare. Sir Ed Davey, the party's leader, stated that FIFA is "corrupt beyond repair" and should be dissolved, arguing that it no longer serves the game or its supporters.

The call follows several controversies during the 2026 World Cup. FIFA overturned a match ban for US player Folarin Balogun after intervention from President Donald Trump, prompting UEFA to state the decision had "crossed a red line" and was "unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable." Additionally, dynamic pricing for World Cup tickets has driven costs above £24,000, and FIFA introduced extended hydration breaks that could generate up to $250 million in additional advertising revenue. The governing body also denied entry to Somali referee Omar Artan, preventing him from officiating at the tournament.

Lib Dem MP Anna Sabine said FIFA behaves "more like a closed-shop cartel than a neutral global sporting body," while MP Munira Wilson highlighted the impact of "price gouging" and commercial decisions that have disrupted match flow. The party argues fans are caught between rule undermining and wallet-squeezing. The Lib Dems have previously advocated for an international fan charter, called for FIFA officials to appear before parliament, and demanded the resignation of FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who has led the organization since 2016.

Sir Ed Davey proposed that football associations should work together "to build a clean, transparent governing body that puts fans first." However, withdrawing from FIFA would have significant consequences: the 211 national football associations that are full FIFA members would lose eligibility to compete in the World Cup if they departed. Infantino is widely expected to secure a fourth term as president, extending his tenure until 2031. The Football Action Network, a campaign group, stated that "nothing should be off the table if the game's global governing body refuses to reform."

FIFA, UEFA, and the English FA have been approached for comment by media outlets. FIFA President Infantino has previously defended ticket costs as in line with other major US sporting events. The relationship between UEFA and FIFA has grown increasingly tense over governance and decision-making during the tournament.