German officials criticize FIFA plans for World Cup private investment

German football leaders, including DFB vice president Hans-Joachim Watzke, voiced strong opposition to FIFA's recent announcement about selling stakes in its events, particularly the World Cup, to private investors. Watzke emphasized that this is viewed as a direct attack on football and indicated there is a broad consensus on this among European football associations. Bayern Munich board member Max Eberl labeled the proposal as 'shameful,' expressing concern that it prioritizes profit over the sport's integrity. Other officials, including VfB Stuttgart's Sebastian Hoeness and Borussia Dortmund's Carsten Cramer, echoed similar sentiments, describing the plans as catastrophic and incomprehensible. FIFA aims to launch a subsidiary valued at $20 billion, promising member federations financial incentives for endorsement by mid-September.

• 2:03 PMYahoo Sports — 'Attack on football' and 'repulsive': German officials on FIFA plans