Oxford United Owner Backs FIFA's World Cup Sell-Off
Oxford United owner Erick Thohir has publicly supported FIFA's plan to sell World Cup commercial rights, sparking widespread criticism from fans and UEFA. The scheme, which would create a $20 billion company to run the World Cup, has been met with an avalanche of backlash, with many accusing FIFA president Gianni Infantino of 'selling football'.
Why it Matters for Oxford United
Thohir's support for the scheme is significant, given his role as both Oxford United owner and Indonesian Football Association president. The U's owner has spoken to Sky News, vowing to support Infantino's proposals, which would see all 211 member associations receive a $40 million windfall if the plans are voted through by mid-September.
What Comes Next?
The fallout from the decision has been momentous, with UEFA agreeing to boycott the World Cup and all FIFA tournaments should Infantino's privatisation proposals be voted through. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and The Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) have also opposed FIFA. Oxford United supporters are keen to hear from the club's owner after a turbulent summer, which has seen former head coach Matt Bloomfield replaced by former Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey and the club enter a temporary transfer embargo. The club has insisted that the financial situation that resulted in the embargo is a short-term issue which will lead to long-term gain.
Oxford United currently sit 22nd in the Championship, with 47 points from 46 games, 11 wins, 14 draws, and 21 losses. They have scored 45 goals and conceded 59, with a -14 goal difference. They are 48 points behind leaders Coventry in the title race and have lost their last two games, including a 2-0 defeat to Millwall on May 2. Recent form has seen the U's win two games and lose three, with their last result being a 2-0 loss to Millwall.
League Standing (Final 2025 Table)
Oxford United currently sit 22nd in the Championship, with 47 points from 46 games, 11 wins, 14 draws, and 21 losses.
