France manager Didier Deschamps has slammed FIFA for organising the 2030 World Cup in three continents, involving six countries. Deschamps minced no words while expressing his displeasure over the logistics of the tournament.

France manager Didier Deschamps has slammed FIFA for organising the 2030 World Cup in three continents, involving six countries. Deschamps minced no words while expressing his displeasure over the logistics of the tournament. The French boss stated that the South American nations will have a 'distinct' advantage when the World Cup matches are held in their backyard. “Beyond the fact that it’s a trend, organising it over multiple countries, there is also the distinctive aspect of matches being held on the continent of South America. I don’t know which countries will be involved, it will mean that the South American countries will be at an advantage and then the other countries will have to move around," Deschamps said in a press conference. The World Cup-winning player and manager urged for more 'coherence' in the decision-making process from FIFA. "I don’t know who makes the decisions, but I won’t hide from you the fact that I like things that are, on a sporting and ethical level, coherent. I don’t think there is much coherence there." FIFA announces 2030 WC plans Last week, FIFA announced its plans to host the 2030 World Cup across Morocco, Portugal, Spain, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay - with all six nations automatically qualifying for the marquee event. The decision was made at a virtual meeting of the FIFA council which will need to be confirmed by all 211 FIFA members present at an event, likely to take place before the FIFA congress. "In 2030, the FIFA World Cup will unite three continents and six countries, inviting the entire world to join in the celebration of the beautiful game, the Centenary and the FIFA World Cup itself," FIFA said in a statement. Also read | 2030 Football World Cup to be held in Europe, Africa and South America, announces FIFA FIFA said the World Cup matches were being held in South America as part of the centenary celebration of the first World Cup held in Uruguay. According to FIFA, the three South American nations will organise one match each with the first of the three matches taking place at the stadium where it all began - the mythical Estádio Centenário, located in the Uruguayan capital city of Montevideo. While the decision by FIFA ended months of jostling among the continental confederations vying to receive the hosting rights, it has opened another can of worms as the likes of Deschamps openly express their discontent. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

France manager Didier Deschamps slams FIFA for holding 2030 World Cup in three continents

FIFA&nbsp;have opened&nbsp;proceedings&nbsp;against&nbsp;the&nbsp;Mexican&nbsp;Football Association following&nbsp;chants&nbsp;by the country's&nbsp;fans during Tuesday's 0-0&nbsp;draw&nbsp;with&nbsp;Poland&nbsp;at the World Cup in Qatar, world soccer's governing body said on Wednesday. FIFA&nbsp;did not elaborate on the&nbsp;chants&nbsp;but&nbsp;Mexicans were heard directing abuse after&nbsp;Poland&nbsp;striker Robert Lewandowski saw his second-half penalty saved by goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa.

"The&nbsp;FIFA&nbsp;Disciplinary Committee has opened&nbsp;proceedings&nbsp;against&nbsp;the&nbsp;Mexican&nbsp;Football Association due to&nbsp;chants&nbsp;by&nbsp;Mexican&nbsp;supporters during the Mexico v&nbsp;Poland&nbsp;FIFA&nbsp;World Cup match played on 22 November," it said. "The&nbsp;proceedings&nbsp;were opened on the basis of article 13 of the&nbsp;FIFA&nbsp;Disciplinary Code." FIFA&nbsp;had also opened disciplinary&nbsp;proceedings&nbsp;against&nbsp;Ecuador&nbsp;over&nbsp;homophobic chanting by their&nbsp;fans in their World Cup opener&nbsp;against&nbsp;Qatar on Sunday.

FIFA&nbsp;said it has opened disciplinary proceedings against&nbsp;Ecuador&nbsp;over&nbsp;homophobic&nbsp;chanting by their fans in their World Cup opener. Ecuador&nbsp;had faced possible expulsion from the tournament after Chile complained they had fielded an ineligible player during the qualifiers. They were fined and received a points deduction for the next World Cup qualifiers but have been allowed to compete in Qatar. The player, Byron Castillo, was left out of the squad to avoid further controversy. At&nbsp;Ecuador's opening game against Qatar, to kick off the World Cup on Sunday, some among their massed ranks of yellow-clad fans sang a&nbsp;homophobic&nbsp;chant against Chileans.

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"The&nbsp;FIFA&nbsp;Disciplinary Committee has opened proceedings against the&nbsp;Ecuadorean Football Association due to&nbsp;chants&nbsp;by&nbsp;Ecuadorean supporters," world football's governing body said in a statement late on Tuesday, citing article 13 of its disciplinary code. Potential sanctions in the code include playing a match without spectators or a ban on playing in a particular stadium. There was no immediate response from&nbsp;Ecuador's football federation. It has been exultantly re-tweeting images from their 2-0 win at the Al Bayt stadium.

Much to the amusement of many watching around the world,&nbsp;Ecuador&nbsp;fans also chanted "We want beer!" in reference to a controversial stadium ban on alcohol consumption at the insistence of the conservative Muslim host nation. LGBT rights have taken prominence during this World Cup, drawing some protests, as homosexuality is illegal in Qatar. Ecuador&nbsp;are joint top of Group A with the Netherlands whom they face on Friday.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Germany will not face FIFA disciplinary action for covering their mouths in a pre-match gesture ahead of their tournament-opener versus Japan, where they shockingly lost 1-2.

FIFA have opened proceedings against the Mexican Football Association following chants by the country's fans during Tuesday's 0-0 draw with Poland at the World Cup in Qatar, world soccer's governing body said on Wednesday.

FIFA have opened proceedings against the Mexican Football Association following chants by the country's fans during Tuesday's 0-0 draw with Poland at the World Cup in Qatar, world soccer's governing body said on Wednesday. FIFA did not elaborate on the chants but Mexicans were heard directing abuse after Poland striker Robert Lewandowski saw his second-half penalty saved by goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa. "The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has opened proceedings against the Mexican Football Association due to chants by Mexican supporters during the Mexico v Poland FIFA World Cup match played on 22 November," it said. "The proceedings were opened on the basis of article 13 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code." FIFA had also opened disciplinary proceedings against Ecuador over homophobic chanting by their fans in their World Cup opener against Qatar on Sunday. FIFA said it has opened disciplinary proceedings against Ecuador over homophobic chanting by their fans in their World Cup opener. Ecuador had faced possible expulsion from the tournament after Chile complained they had fielded an ineligible player during the qualifiers. They were fined and received a points deduction for the next World Cup qualifiers but have been allowed to compete in Qatar. The player, Byron Castillo, was left out of the squad to avoid further controversy. At Ecuador's opening game against Qatar, to kick off the World Cup on Sunday, some among their massed ranks of yellow-clad fans sang a homophobic chant against Chileans. Also read: David Beckham up for talks with potential bidders as Man United owners planning to sell club - Report "The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has opened proceedings against the Ecuadorean Football Association due to chants by Ecuadorean supporters," world football's governing body said in a statement late on Tuesday, citing article 13 of its disciplinary code. Potential sanctions in the code include playing a match without spectators or a ban on playing in a particular stadium. There was no immediate response from Ecuador's football federation. It has been exultantly re-tweeting images from their 2-0 win at the Al Bayt stadium. Much to the amusement of many watching around the world, Ecuador fans also chanted "We want beer!" in reference to a controversial stadium ban on alcohol consumption at the insistence of the conservative Muslim host nation. LGBT rights have taken prominence during this World Cup, drawing some protests, as homosexuality is illegal in Qatar. Ecuador are joint top of Group A with the Netherlands whom they face on Friday. Meanwhile, Germany will not face FIFA disciplinary action for covering their mouths in a pre-match gesture ahead of their tournament-opener versus Japan, where they shockingly lost 1-2.

Qatar World Cup: FIFA opens proceedings against Mexican FA, Ecuador fans over controversial chants

England and Wales have planned to defy FIFA by expressing their support for the LGBTQ+ community with their captains wearing rainbow-coloured "OneLove" bands. England skipper Harry Kane and his Wales counterpart Gareth Bale have both decided to wear the unique armbands despite FIFA's norms not permitting it.

For the unaware, FIFA was recently approached by a number of nations who are set to take part in the upcoming 2022 World Cup in Qatar with a request to allow them to wear rainbow armbands during the tournament. However, the countries didn't hear back from the world football's governing body.

Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar, a conservative Muslim nation, which has a history of human rights violations. The countries approached FIFA with the hope that they will be allowed to express their solidarity with the LGBTQ community and stand against discrimination. However, FIFA launched its own 'social campaign' after ignoring the request.

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FIFA has urged captains of all teams to wear different armbands promoting social causes with messages such as "Bring the moves" and "Share the meal" among others in its new initiative. However, England and Wales are set to defy the orders and go ahead with the "OneLove" rainbow bands.

As per a report in the Guardian, both Kane and Bale will sport the rainbow coloured armbands expressing their support for the LGBTQ community. England and Wales are likely to face a fine for the gesture but the football associations of both nations have decided to go ahead with the move.

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As per FIFA's equipment regulations, the players or the kits of any country participating in the tournament cannot sport political, religious or personal slogan that doesn't comply with the laws of the game.

"No item (of playing kit or other clothing or equipment or otherwise) may be worn or used in any controlled area if Fifa considers that it is dangerous, offensive or indecent, includes political, religious, or personal slogans, statements, or images, or otherwise does not comply in full with the laws of the game," states FIFA's equipment guideline.

England are in Group B of the FIFA World Cup 2022 and will open their campaign against Iran on Monday (November 21). Wales, on the other hand, are in Group B and will lock horns with USA in their tournament opener on Tuesday (November 22).

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England and Wales have planned to defy FIFA by expressing their support for the LGBTQ+ community with their captains wearing rainbow-coloured "OneLove" bands. England skipper Harry Kane and his Wales counterpart Gareth Bale have both decided to wear the unique armbands despite FIFA's norms not permitting it.

England and Wales have planned to defy FIFA by expressing their support for the LGBTQ+ community with their captains wearing rainbow-coloured "OneLove" bands. England skipper Harry Kane and his Wales counterpart Gareth Bale have both decided to wear the unique armbands despite FIFA's norms not permitting it. For the unaware, FIFA was recently approached by a number of nations who are set to take part in the upcoming 2022 World Cup in Qatar with a request to allow them to wear rainbow armbands during the tournament. However, the countries didn't hear back from the world football's governing body. Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar, a conservative Muslim nation, which has a history of human rights violations. The countries approached FIFA with the hope that they will be allowed to express their solidarity with the LGBTQ community and stand against discrimination. However, FIFA launched its own 'social campaign' after ignoring the request. Also Read: Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo eyes elite World Cup record amid Manchester United woes FIFA has urged captains of all teams to wear different armbands promoting social causes with messages such as "Bring the moves" and "Share the meal" among others in its new initiative. However, England and Wales are set to defy the orders and go ahead with the "OneLove" rainbow bands. As per a report in the Guardian, both Kane and Bale will sport the rainbow coloured armbands expressing their support for the LGBTQ community. England and Wales are likely to face a fine for the gesture but the football associations of both nations have decided to go ahead with the move. Also Read: If for 3 hours a day you can't drink a beer, you will survive: FIFA president on beer ban at Qatar World Cup As per FIFA's equipment regulations, the players or the kits of any country participating in the tournament cannot sport political, religious or personal slogan that doesn't comply with the laws of the game. "No item (of playing kit or other clothing or equipment or otherwise) may be worn or used in any controlled area if Fifa considers that it is dangerous, offensive or indecent, includes political, religious, or personal slogans, statements, or images, or otherwise does not comply in full with the laws of the game," states FIFA's equipment guideline. England are in Group B of the FIFA World Cup 2022 and will open their campaign against Iran on Monday (November 21). Wales, on the other hand, are in Group B and will lock horns with USA in their tournament opener on Tuesday (November 22). ×

England and Wales set to defy FIFA with 'OneLove' rainbow armbands in support of LGBTQ rights

FIFA on Wednesday banned the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) with immediate effect due to “undue third-party interference”. Until the suspension is lifted, Pakistan’s national and club teams would not be eligible to take part in international competitions, the world governing body announced on Wednesday.

The election of Faisal Saleh Hayat as the federation’s president in 2015 and following allegations of vote-rigging led to a halt in the sport in Pakistan.

To resolve the matter, a high court-appointed administrator took charge of the Pakistan Football Federation but that was in violation of FIFA statutes regarding political interference.

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"The Bureau [of the Fifa Council] took this decision as a result of the fact that the PFF offices and its accounts remain in control of a court-appointed administrator, which constitutes a violation of the PFF obligations to manage its affairs independently and without influence from any third parties in accordance with the FIFA Statutes," Fifa said in a statement.

"The suspension will be lifted once the PFF offices and access to the PFF accounts are returned to the PFF."

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Moreover, with the FIFA ban, none of the PFF”s members or officials can benefit from developmental grants or training courses from FIFA or Asian Football Confederation (AFC).

Pakistan’s men national team hasn’t played a match since 2015 with their FIFA rank being at an all-time low of 200. Notably, there is no professional league in the country.

Hayat is set to appeal the verdict in Lahore High Court next Tuesday in a bid to re-take charge of the PFF.

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FIFA on Wednesday banned the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) with immediate effect due to “undue third-party interference”. Until the suspension is lifted, Pakistan’s national and club teams would not be eligible to take part in international competitions, the world governing body announced on Wednesday.

FIFA on Wednesday banned the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) with immediate effect due to “undue third-party interference”. Until the suspension is lifted, Pakistan’s national and club teams would not be eligible to take part in international competitions, the world governing body announced on Wednesday. The election of Faisal Saleh Hayat as the federation’s president in 2015 and following allegations of vote-rigging led to a halt in the sport in Pakistan. To resolve the matter, a high court-appointed administrator took charge of the Pakistan Football Federation but that was in violation of FIFA statutes regarding political interference. ALSO READ: Foden hands Man City late advantage against Dortmund "The Bureau [of the Fifa Council] took this decision as a result of the fact that the PFF offices and its accounts remain in control of a court-appointed administrator, which constitutes a violation of the PFF obligations to manage its affairs independently and without influence from any third parties in accordance with the FIFA Statutes," Fifa said in a statement. "The suspension will be lifted once the PFF offices and access to the PFF accounts are returned to the PFF." ALSO READ: Vinicius double puts Real Madrid on top against Liverpool Moreover, with the FIFA ban, none of the PFF”s members or officials can benefit from developmental grants or training courses from FIFA or Asian Football Confederation (AFC). Pakistan’s men national team hasn’t played a match since 2015 with their FIFA rank being at an all-time low of 200. Notably, there is no professional league in the country. Hayat is set to appeal the verdict in Lahore High Court next Tuesday in a bid to re-take charge of the PFF.

FIFA bans Pakistan Football Federation with immediate effect over 'third-party interference'

FIFA banned its former president Sepp Blatter until 2028 on Wednesday after handing him a new suspension of six years and eight months for receiving huge bonuses.

Former FIFA secretary-general Jerome Valcke also had his existing suspension extended by the same amount.

The new bans will only come into force when the current bans on Blatter and Valcke for corruption, which last till October this year and October 2025, end.

FIFA's Ethics Committee said it had also fined each man one million Swiss francs.

Blatter, who is 85, received 23 million Swiss francs ($24.6 million, 20.7 million euros) in "extraordinary bonuses" linked to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and the 2014 World Cup in Brazil as well as the Confederations Cup tournament in Brazil that preceded it, the Ethics Committee said in a summary of its decision.

Valcke, the 60-year-old Frenchman who was Blatter's right-hand man during his 17-year reign at the head of football's world governing body, received 30 million Swiss francs over the same period, the committee said.

FIFA said Blatter and Valcke had violated the Code of Ethics by "offering and accepting gifts or other benefits" and through "abuse of position".

It said in a statement: "The investigations into Messrs Blatter and Valcke covered various charges, in particular concerning bonus payments in relation to FIFA competitions that were paid to top FIFA management officials, various amendments and extensions of employment contracts, as well as reimbursement by FIFA of private legal costs in the case of Mr Valcke."

Blatter was forced to stand down as FIFA president in 2015 and was originally banned by FIFA for eight years, later reduced to six, over ethics breaches when he was found to have authorised a two-million-euro "disloyal payment" to former UEFA president Michel Platini.

Valcke was initially banned for 12 years but it was reduced to 10 years on appeal.

FIFA banned its former president Sepp Blatter until 2028 on Wednesday after handing him a new suspension of six years and eight months for receiving huge bonuses.

FIFA banned its former president Sepp Blatter until 2028 on Wednesday after handing him a new suspension of six years and eight months for receiving huge bonuses. Former FIFA secretary-general Jerome Valcke also had his existing suspension extended by the same amount. The new bans will only come into force when the current bans on Blatter and Valcke for corruption, which last till October this year and October 2025, end. FIFA's Ethics Committee said it had also fined each man one million Swiss francs. Blatter, who is 85, received 23 million Swiss francs ($24.6 million, 20.7 million euros) in "extraordinary bonuses" linked to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and the 2014 World Cup in Brazil as well as the Confederations Cup tournament in Brazil that preceded it, the Ethics Committee said in a summary of its decision. Valcke, the 60-year-old Frenchman who was Blatter's right-hand man during his 17-year reign at the head of football's world governing body, received 30 million Swiss francs over the same period, the committee said. FIFA said Blatter and Valcke had violated the Code of Ethics by "offering and accepting gifts or other benefits" and through "abuse of position". It said in a statement: "The investigations into Messrs Blatter and Valcke covered various charges, in particular concerning bonus payments in relation to FIFA competitions that were paid to top FIFA management officials, various amendments and extensions of employment contracts, as well as reimbursement by FIFA of private legal costs in the case of Mr Valcke." Blatter was forced to stand down as FIFA president in 2015 and was originally banned by FIFA for eight years, later reduced to six, over ethics breaches when he was found to have authorised a two-million-euro "disloyal payment" to former UEFA president Michel Platini. Valcke was initially banned for 12 years but it was reduced to 10 years on appeal.

FIFA extends ban on Blatter until 2028

FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Thursday said that he strongly backs an expanded Club World Cup in a bid to boost international competitions between clubs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We are focusing on world competition in the Club World Cup, for example, to have not only one club present from each confederation, but more participation because we need to boost club football all over the world,"&nbsp;Infaninto&nbsp;told AFP.&nbsp;

In the year 2021, there are two Club World Cups being held with Qatar currently hosting the ongoing edition that was delayed from&nbsp;COVID-19 hit 2020. The second Club World Cup tournament for the year 2021 is scheduled to be held in Japan in December.&nbsp;

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A revamped 24-team Club World Cup, including eight clubs from Europe, was due to be held in China this year.&nbsp;However, the deferment of Euro 2020 and Copa America tournaments, the expanded edition of the Club World Cup will not commence until a later date.&nbsp;

An enlarged tournament could help address growing calls for "super leagues" of top regional and global clubs -- leading European clubs are believed to be keen to create a European Super League.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Infantino did not say on Thursday when the new Club World Cup format might begin.&nbsp;

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"(But) we have already decided that the new Club World Cup will be featuring 24 teams from all different continents," he told AFP.&nbsp;

"We will still have to find the right slot for the new Club World Cup with 24 teams. It's obviously not an easy challenge in this period where everything is congested anyway.&nbsp;

"If we need to wait one year longer then we'll do that."&nbsp;

&nbsp;

FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Thursday said that he strongly backs an expanded Club World Cup in a bid to boost international competitions between clubs. "We are focusing on world competition in the Club World Cup, for example, to have not only one club present from each confederation, but more participation because we need to boost club football all over the world," Infaninto told AFP.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Thursday said that he strongly backs an expanded Club World Cup in a bid to boost international competitions between clubs. "We are focusing on world competition in the Club World Cup, for example, to have not only one club present from each confederation, but more participation because we need to boost club football all over the world," Infaninto told AFP. In the year 2021, there are two Club World Cups being held with Qatar currently hosting the ongoing edition that was delayed from COVID-19 hit 2020. The second Club World Cup tournament for the year 2021 is scheduled to be held in Japan in December. ALSO READ: Football bosses demand Twitter, Facebook to tackle 'havens of abuse' A revamped 24-team Club World Cup, including eight clubs from Europe, was due to be held in China this year. However, the deferment of Euro 2020 and Copa America tournaments, the expanded edition of the Club World Cup will not commence until a later date. An enlarged tournament could help address growing calls for "super leagues" of top regional and global clubs -- leading European clubs are believed to be keen to create a European Super League. Infantino did not say on Thursday when the new Club World Cup format might begin. ALSO READ: Manchester City see off Swansea to rack up record 15th straight win "(But) we have already decided that the new Club World Cup will be featuring 24 teams from all different continents," he told AFP. "We will still have to find the right slot for the new Club World Cup with 24 teams. It's obviously not an easy challenge in this period where everything is congested anyway. "If we need to wait one year longer then we'll do that."

FIFA focusing on enlarged Club World Cup, says Gianni Infantino

FIFA has gone on the offensive amid ongoing speculation about a European Super League, insisting that any breakaway by leading clubs "would not be recognised by either FIFA or the respective confederation" while players would risk being banned from the World Cup and other major tournaments if involved.

"Any club or player involved in such a competition would as a consequence not be allowed to participate in any competition organised by FIFA or their respective confederation," said Thursday's statement, signed by FIFA president Gianni Infantino along with the heads of all six continental confederations including UEFA.

The statement was a response to what it called "recent media speculation" about a breakaway by some of the world's richest clubs.

In October, outgoing Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu dropped a bombshell in a statement announcing his resignation, as he also claimed the club had accepted a proposal to join other clubs in "a future European Super League".

That followed reports in the UK that negotiations were nearing conclusion for the creation of a closed "European Premier League" of 18 clubs, backed by $6 billion of financing from major banks.

However, those reports came with discussions still ongoing about the future format of the UEFA Champions League, the world's most lucrative and prestigious club competition.

<h2>- 'Protect the existing model' -</h2>

The European Leagues organisation, which represents leagues in 29 countries across the continent, said it "unanimously" supported FIFA's statement and rejected any attempts to follow the North American franchise model for professional sports.

"In the European football pyramid, every player has the opportunity to play in a club which can qualify from the base of the pyramid to the very top of professional football," European Leagues president Lars-Christer Olsson said in a statement.

"This is the foundation of the model and the main reason for football's success.

"We are determined to protect the existing model and how football is organised in Europe and the way the industry works for professional football."

Meanwhile, FIFA remains focused on plans for an expanded, 24-team Club World Cup, championed by Infantino.

The competition was due to take place for the first time this year in China but was put back to a later date after Euro 2020 and the Copa America were postponed to June and July 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The delayed 2020 edition of the Club World Cup will go ahead next month in its existing format, involving only the champions of each confederation -- minus New Zealand's Auckland City of Oceania who withdrew due to complications caused by the pandemic -- plus the champions of the host nation Qatar.

"As per the FIFA and confederations statutes, all competitions should be organised or recognised by the relevant body at their respective level, by FIFA at the global level and by the confederations at the continental level," FIFA said.

"In this respect, the confederations recognise the FIFA Club World Cup, in its current and new format, as the only worldwide club competition while FIFA recognises the club competitions organised by the confederations as the only club continental competitions."

FIFA has gone on the offensive amid ongoing speculation about a European Super League, insisting that any breakaway by leading clubs "would not be recognised by either FIFA or the respective confederation" while players would risk being banned from the World Cup and other major tournaments if involved.

FIFA has gone on the offensive amid ongoing speculation about a European Super League, insisting that any breakaway by leading clubs "would not be recognised by either FIFA or the respective confederation" while players would risk being banned from the World Cup and other major tournaments if involved. "Any club or player involved in such a competition would as a consequence not be allowed to participate in any competition organised by FIFA or their respective confederation," said Thursday's statement, signed by FIFA president Gianni Infantino along with the heads of all six continental confederations including UEFA. The statement was a response to what it called "recent media speculation" about a breakaway by some of the world's richest clubs. In October, outgoing Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu dropped a bombshell in a statement announcing his resignation, as he also claimed the club had accepted a proposal to join other clubs in "a future European Super League". That followed reports in the UK that negotiations were nearing conclusion for the creation of a closed "European Premier League" of 18 clubs, backed by $6 billion of financing from major banks. However, those reports came with discussions still ongoing about the future format of the UEFA Champions League, the world's most lucrative and prestigious club competition. - 'Protect the existing model' - The European Leagues organisation, which represents leagues in 29 countries across the continent, said it "unanimously" supported FIFA's statement and rejected any attempts to follow the North American franchise model for professional sports. "In the European football pyramid, every player has the opportunity to play in a club which can qualify from the base of the pyramid to the very top of professional football," European Leagues president Lars-Christer Olsson said in a statement. "This is the foundation of the model and the main reason for football's success. "We are determined to protect the existing model and how football is organised in Europe and the way the industry works for professional football." Meanwhile, FIFA remains focused on plans for an expanded, 24-team Club World Cup, championed by Infantino. The competition was due to take place for the first time this year in China but was put back to a later date after Euro 2020 and the Copa America were postponed to June and July 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic. The delayed 2020 edition of the Club World Cup will go ahead next month in its existing format, involving only the champions of each confederation -- minus New Zealand's Auckland City of Oceania who withdrew due to complications caused by the pandemic -- plus the champions of the host nation Qatar. "As per the FIFA and confederations statutes, all competitions should be organised or recognised by the relevant body at their respective level, by FIFA at the global level and by the confederations at the continental level," FIFA said. "In this respect, the confederations recognise the FIFA Club World Cup, in its current and new format, as the only worldwide club competition while FIFA recognises the club competitions organised by the confederations as the only club continental competitions."

Breakaway European Super League 'would not be recognised' by FIFA

FIFA on Tuesday announced that it has filed a criminal complaint against former president Sepp Blatter over the finances of its loss-making museum in Zurich. FIFA, in a statement, said that a criminal complaint has been lodged against Blatter with Zurich’s cantonal prosecutor as evidence of suspected criminal mismanagement by FIFA’s former management and companies appointed by them.&nbsp;

In a statement, FIFA said it had "lodged a criminal complaint with Zurich's cantonal prosecutor as evidence of suspected criminal mismanagement by FIFA's former management and companies appointed by them in relation to the (museum) has surfaced."&nbsp;

Blatter's lawyer, Lorenz Erni, told AFP "the accusations are unfounded" and denied wrongdoing.

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As per FIFA, the museum generated a bill of 500 million Swiss francs (462 million euros) that instead "could and should have been channeled into the development of global football".

"We came to the conclusion that we had no choice other than to report the case to state prosecutors, not least because the current management of FIFA also has fiduciary responsibilities to the organisation and we intend to live up to them, even if those before us dismally failed to," said FIFA deputy secretary general Alasdair Bell.

The Zurich-based museum, which is a marquee Blatter project, was inaugurated in February 2016 by current FIFA president Gianni Infantino after he was elected as Blatter’s successor.

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Blatter was suspended from football for six years over a two million Swiss franc payment to then UEFA boss Michel Platini.

FIFA went on to invest 140 million Swiss frans ($138.6 million) in the museum, which is spread over three floors. However, it lost $50 million in its inaugural year of operating and attracted an average of 11,000 visitors a month – half the target of what Blatter had anticipated.

(With AFP inputs)

FIFA on Tuesday announced that it has filed a criminal complaint against former president Sepp Blatter over the finances of its loss-making museum in Zurich. FIFA, in a statement, said that a criminal complaint has been lodged against Blatter with Zurich’s cantonal prosecutor as evidence of suspected criminal mismanagement by FIFA’s former management and companies appointed by them.

FIFA on Tuesday announced that it has filed a criminal complaint against former president Sepp Blatter over the finances of its loss-making museum in Zurich. FIFA, in a statement, said that a criminal complaint has been lodged against Blatter with Zurich’s cantonal prosecutor as evidence of suspected criminal mismanagement by FIFA’s former management and companies appointed by them. In a statement, FIFA said it had "lodged a criminal complaint with Zurich's cantonal prosecutor as evidence of suspected criminal mismanagement by FIFA's former management and companies appointed by them in relation to the (museum) has surfaced." Blatter's lawyer, Lorenz Erni, told AFP "the accusations are unfounded" and denied wrongdoing. ALSO READ: Nobby Stiles' brain injury caused by heading ball, doctor says As per FIFA, the museum generated a bill of 500 million Swiss francs (462 million euros) that instead "could and should have been channeled into the development of global football". "We came to the conclusion that we had no choice other than to report the case to state prosecutors, not least because the current management of FIFA also has fiduciary responsibilities to the organisation and we intend to live up to them, even if those before us dismally failed to," said FIFA deputy secretary general Alasdair Bell. The Zurich-based museum, which is a marquee Blatter project, was inaugurated in February 2016 by current FIFA president Gianni Infantino after he was elected as Blatter’s successor. ALSO READ: Fourth stadium for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 unveiled Blatter was suspended from football for six years over a two million Swiss franc payment to then UEFA boss Michel Platini. FIFA went on to invest 140 million Swiss frans ($138.6 million) in the museum, which is spread over three floors. However, it lost $50 million in its inaugural year of operating and attracted an average of 11,000 visitors a month – half the target of what Blatter had anticipated. (With AFP inputs)

FIFA lodges criminal complaint against Sepp Blatter over loss-making museum

FIFA wants VAR video reviews to be applied in the same way across all competitions, as they take over direct responsibility for the system.

Issues concerning VAR have been handled primarily by IFAB, the game’s law-making body, during the system’s two-year experimental phase and its introduction as part of the laws of the game.

Soccer’s global governing body FIFA, however, took over the role of supporting competition organisers with the implementation of VAR from July 1.

Pierluigi Collina, the Italian former World Cup referee and chairman of FIFA’s Referees’ Committee, told Reuters the move was a “natural transition”.

“IFAB as an organisation has the duty to govern the laws of football, including VAR and the protocol and regulations. Once the laws of the game are set, IFAB’s job is over,” he said.

“It is then FIFA that deals with referees’ education around the world supporting all the member associations.”

There have been some variations in the use of VAR in different competitions and national leagues, but Collina said there should be a uniform approach.

“Another responsibility of FIFA’s is to have the laws of the game implemented all over the world in the same way, there cannot be different implementation of the laws of the game in different continents or different countries. Our responsibility is to ensure that football is played in the same way all over the world.

“Can you imagine in international competition played by teams who are used to having different interpretations of the laws of the game in their domestic competition? Saying that VAR should be used in the same way all over the world is something obvious.

“Of course there can be some small differences, but the general implementation should be the same.

“It is FIFA and IFAB’s responsibility to have the game played the same way across the world, for the benefit of those who are playing,” he said.

The Premier League has not used VAR to check for encroachment off the line by goalkeepers during penalty kicks despite that element being part of the protocol.

Speaking generally, Collina said FIFA wanted to avoid situations where players in an international tournament faced surprise decisions.

“If something is written in the laws of the game, it has to be implemented everywhere, otherwise can you imagine the surprise of someone who is penalised for something in an international game that he is not penalised for at home?

“Maybe they would not be aware of what they can do? If something in the laws of the game doesn’t work, then it is discussed and eventually changed by IFAB,” he said.

FIFA wants VAR video reviews to be applied in the same way across all competitions, as they take over direct responsibility for the system. Issues concerning VAR have been handled primarily by IFAB, the game’s law-making body, during the system’s two-year experimental phase and its introduction as part of the laws of the game.

FIFA wants VAR video reviews to be applied in the same way across all competitions, as they take over direct responsibility for the system. Issues concerning VAR have been handled primarily by IFAB, the game’s law-making body, during the system’s two-year experimental phase and its introduction as part of the laws of the game. Soccer’s global governing body FIFA, however, took over the role of supporting competition organisers with the implementation of VAR from July 1. Pierluigi Collina, the Italian former World Cup referee and chairman of FIFA’s Referees’ Committee, told Reuters the move was a “natural transition”. “IFAB as an organisation has the duty to govern the laws of football, including VAR and the protocol and regulations. Once the laws of the game are set, IFAB’s job is over,” he said. “It is then FIFA that deals with referees’ education around the world supporting all the member associations.” There have been some variations in the use of VAR in different competitions and national leagues, but Collina said there should be a uniform approach. “Another responsibility of FIFA’s is to have the laws of the game implemented all over the world in the same way, there cannot be different implementation of the laws of the game in different continents or different countries. Our responsibility is to ensure that football is played in the same way all over the world. “Can you imagine in international competition played by teams who are used to having different interpretations of the laws of the game in their domestic competition? Saying that VAR should be used in the same way all over the world is something obvious. “Of course there can be some small differences, but the general implementation should be the same. “It is FIFA and IFAB’s responsibility to have the game played the same way across the world, for the benefit of those who are playing,” he said. The Premier League has not used VAR to check for encroachment off the line by goalkeepers during penalty kicks despite that element being part of the protocol. Speaking generally, Collina said FIFA wanted to avoid situations where players in an international tournament faced surprise decisions. “If something is written in the laws of the game, it has to be implemented everywhere, otherwise can you imagine the surprise of someone who is penalised for something in an international game that he is not penalised for at home? “Maybe they would not be aware of what they can do? If something in the laws of the game doesn’t work, then it is discussed and eventually changed by IFAB,” he said.

FIFA wants uniform global use of VAR, says refs chief Collina

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