IOC Cites Concerns Regarding FIFA Biennial World Cup Plan
Disregarding players' physical and mental health, FIFA is still moving forward with its controversial plan for biennially holding the World Cup, and the IOC joins the opposition.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) criticized FIFA's plans to hold the World Cup every two years rather than every four years - a move that has faced a lot of criticism from all fans of the beautiful game.
IOC has expressed concerns about the impact that biennially holding the World Cup could have on other sports.
FIFA's proposals are set to be voted on in December, with president Gianni Infantino traveling the world in an attempt at rallying support for the controversial project. Infantino is also an IOC member, and he has been attempting to put this plan into action alongside former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, who is currently spearheading the plan.
Continental federations, such as UEFA and CONMEBOL, coaches, and pundits have been criticizing the plan since day one, as it would severely damage the sport itself, as well as other sports.
The IOC added its voice to those opposing the proposals, saying that many sports federations had spoken out against the idea: "A number of International Federations (IFs) of other sports, national football federations, clubs, players, players associations and coaches have expressed strong reservations and concerns regarding the plans to generate more revenue for FIFA."
The IOC backed the critics, listing the "impact on other sports," "challenges for the further promotion of women's football," and a "further massive strain" on players' health as reasons not to play the World Cup more regularly.
Since its foundation, the World Cup has been played quadrennial, apart from cancellations during certain events, such as those during WWII.
FIFA did not see it as enough to call for holding the most anticipated sporting event biennially. It also wants to hold continental championships, including Europe's Euro and America's Copa America, every two years as well, which could take its toll on the sport and players.