Football, or soccer as it is known in some parts of the world, is not just a sport—it's a passion, a culture, and for many, a way of life. It brings people together across nations, transcending language, politics, and borders. The World Cup is a symbol of this unity, celebrated by billions globally.

Yet, this beautiful game is under threat by corporate interests that seek to privatise what is inherently public. Gianni Infantino and Donald Trump's  FIFA plan to take over the World Cup is a direct attack on the very soul of football. The proposed lead investor is Thrive Eternal, led by Joshua Kushner, the brother of Jared Kushner, who is married to Donald Trump’s daughter Ivanka. JPMorgan is working with FIFA on the transaction, while Greg Maffei, formerly chief executive of Liberty Media during its ownership of Formula One, has acted as a commercial adviser.² This plan would destroy the public ownership of football, a concept that has allowed the sport to thrive and belong to the people.

Public ownership is the backbone of football. It ensures that the game remains accessible and inclusive, that it belongs to every fan from Liverpool to London, Barcelona to Buenos Aires, Cairo to Cape Town. Under the influence of a few powerful individuals, this spirit is now being threatened by financialisation at an unprecedented scale.

Infantino and Trump's involvement raises concerns not only about the future direction of FIFA but also about the ethics and fairness of the sport we love. Their influence threatens to centralise control, prioritise profit over and fans, and eliminate the grassroots nature of the game that so many hold dear.

By stopping this takeover, we preserve the integrity of football and protect the communal aspect that makes it special. It's essential that football remains in the hands of communities and organizations that prioritize the fans, the players, and the beauty of the game itself.

We must act now to safeguard the World Cup from corporate domination. This is not just about football; it's about preserving a global heritage. Please sign this petition to demand that FIFA remain an organisation representing the world's people, ensuring that the love of the game continues to inspire and unite us all.