Preparations for the upcoming Under-20 Women's World Cup in Poland are progressing as planned, organisers confirmed on Tuesday. The tournament, set for September 5 to 27, will be the first FIFA event held amidst a significant governance dispute involving global football chief Gianni Infantino.
All 55 UEFA member associations previously voted unanimously to support a boycott of FIFA competitions. This decision followed Infantino's proposal, later withdrawn, to sell 20 per cent of World Cup commercial rights to private investors for an estimated $4.2 billion.
The Polish Football Association (PZPN) stated that preparations are in their final stage and they have not received any information regarding potential team withdrawals. They expressed hope for a swift resolution to the current situation.
New Zealand and France have both confirmed their participation in the 24-team competition. New Zealand Football highlighted the tournament's importance for the development of the women's game. England's FA, Canada Soccer, and the US Soccer federation declined to comment on their involvement, though the US is expected to compete.
Last week, UEFA reiterated its boycott threat, stating that the conditions attached to non-participation in FIFA competitions have not been met. The European football federation also reaffirmed its loss of confidence in Gianni Infantino's presidency.