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FIFA President Gianni Infantino planned U-15 World Cup in Florida
FIFA President Gianni Infantino reportedly explored plans to launch a new U-15 World Cup designed as a commercialized football festival. Inspired by the American Little League World Series, the ambitious project aimed to involve all 211 FIFA member associations.
According to reports from The Athletic, discussions involved private investors, including Eldridge Industries, led by Chelsea FC co-owner Todd Boehly, and former Mexican federation president Juan Carlos Rodriguez. The proposed event was intended to be held in the United States, specifically at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex near Disney World in Orlando, with ceremonies potentially taking place within Disney theme parks.
Negotiations with ESPN regarding broadcasting rights were also part of the plan. One controversial suggestion included an opening match between Israel and Palestine. However, the project has since been suspended, and discussions regarding its commercialization were halted prior to the 2026 World Cup.
Entities
ESPN · Eldridge Industries · FIFA · Gianni Infantino · Todd Boehly
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Eldridge Industries, led by Todd Boehly, supported the investor group behind the proposal. www.abola.pt · www.stiripesurse.ro · www.voetbalprimeur.be
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Infantino suggested an opening match between Israel and Palestine. www.voetbalprimeur.be
- [● 3 SOURCES] The project was inspired by the Little League World Series baseball competition. www.abola.pt · www.stiripesurse.ro · www.voetbalprimeur.be
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The project required approval from all 211 FIFA member states. www.voetbalprimeur.be
- [● 3 SOURCES] The tournament was planned to be held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex near Disney World in Orlando. www.abola.pt · www.stiripesurse.ro · www.voetbalprimeur.be
- [● 3 SOURCES] Gianni Infantino initiated discussions to launch a U-15 World Cup. www.abola.pt · www.stiripesurse.ro · www.voetbalprimeur.be
- [● 2 SOURCES] Negotiations for the U-15 tournament were suspended before the 2026 World Cup. www.abola.pt · www.stiripesurse.ro
- [● 3 SOURCES] The proposed tournament would have included all 211 FIFA member federations. www.abola.pt · www.stiripesurse.ro · www.voetbalprimeur.be