Germany against idea of biennial football World Cup

By Selcuk Bugra Gokalp

ANKARA (AA) - The German Football Association (DFB) said on Friday it is against the idea of organizing a FIFA World Cup every two years.

The DFB discussed the proposal of complete revision of the international competition calendar, and staging of a biennial FIFA World Cup.

It expressed full support to UEFA's position that a decision on such an important matter cannot be taken without the consent of European football associations.

The association listed several reasons for its decision, including immense physical and mental strain on national team players should they play major international tournaments every year in succession.​​​​​​​

Last week, UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin also dismissed the idea, warning of a potential European boycott of the World Cup if FIFA's plans go ahead.

The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) has also criticized the plan, saying that the proposed changes would make circumstances extremely difficult for both the clubs and nations.

Gianni Infantino, the FIFA president in charge since 2016, is said be a supporter of the biennial World Cup idea.

Saudi Arabia formally proposed its feasibility study at a virtual FIFA meeting in May.

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