Council of Europe Challenges FIFA’s Integrity in Upcoming World Cup Preparations

The Council of Europe has raised serious questions about the integrity of the World Cup, urging FIFA to enhance the framework for the 2030 tournament, which will mainly take place in Spain and Portugal. This call came shortly before the World Cup final in East Rutherford, New Jersey, featuring Spain and Argentina.

Alain Berset, a Swiss politician and head of the 46-nation Council of Europe, expressed his concerns in an open letter to FIFA—FIFA being the Council’s formal working partner. He cited issues surrounding money and power as emerging crises in the soccer world.

Berset highlighted the instance where FIFA lifted a ban on U.S. forward Folarin Balugun, allegedly due to pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump. Balugun was cleared to play against Belgium in a crucial match, which Belgium won 4-1. This decision raised questions about political influence impacting the game.

FIFA faced further criticism for signing a $150 million sponsorship deal with the newly established prediction market company ADI Predictstreet, a week following its creation. This deal, among others with the gambling industry, has raised concerns about potential fraud.

Berset pointed out that prediction betting could lead to insider trading and manipulating outcomes in soccer. “An open door to fraud,” he described it, especially given the scope within which individual players can influence bets without affecting the scoreline.

Despite a formal agreement with FIFA, signed in 2018, to promote democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, the Council of Europe has chosen to voice its concerns publicly. FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Berset had previously met in 2024 during the United Nations general assembly in New York.

UEFA also criticized FIFA’s suspension of Balogun’s sanction, labeling it as a breach of soccer’s rule of law and transparency. No official explanation from FIFA’s disciplinary judge has been made available, which has fueled further dissatisfaction.

Berset criticized the conduct of the World Cup, citing challenged decisions by referees and racist abuse directed at players. He called for a dialogue with FIFA to establish a stronger integrity framework for the 2030 World Cup.

The upcoming 2030 World Cup will primarily be hosted in Europe, with Morocco as a co-host. The event will mark the centenary of the original World Cup, with Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay hosting the opening games.