Spanish politician and former Prime Minister
FIFA has proposed selling up to 20% of a new commercial arm, FIFA Forward Enterprise, to raise as much as $4.2bn while retaining majority control. UEFA and several national federations have protested, threatening boycotts and ethics complaints over investor links and Gianni Infantino’s political ties. FIFA says members would be offered one‑off capital and governance remains with FIFA.
A high-profile political comment has sparked condemnation across Europe ahead of a World Cup semifinal between Spain and France. Former Spanish prime minister Mariano Rajoy wrote that the French team lacks French players. French and Spanish leaders have decried the remarks as racist, while France prepares to face Spain in Dallas.
France has been eliminated from the World Cup after a 2-0 defeat to Spain in the semi-final in Dallas. Deschamps has spent 14 years in charge, winning the 2018 World Cup and reaching another final in 2022, but Spain’s victory ends France’s bid for a third consecutive final. Spain advance to the final, while Deschamps’ tenure faces a named successor discussion.
Spain has claimed a second World Cup title after beating Argentina 1-0 in New Jersey. The team returns home to Madrid with a victory parade that attracts millions, while leaders from three co-hosting nations congratulate the squad.