FIFA's lack of prior communication regarding plans to sell FIFA World Cup-related stakes to private investors is "completely unacceptable," said AFC President Salman, according to Reuters. He added that the move undermines the existing continental football system.

The Bahraini football official made a rare strong statement. Salman's remarks appeared in a letter sent to the AFC's 47 member associations on Thursday, the content of which was obtained by Reuters.

FIFA announced on Tuesday its plan to establish a $20 billion commercial subsidiary to operate the FIFA World Cup and other events. This plan has been criticized by several regional football confederations, including the AFC. The AFC stated that they learned of the news without prior communication.

Salman wrote in the letter: "The AFC is extremely concerned and disappointed that FIFA did not consult with the AFC at any level before the public announcement of this proposal. Furthermore, the AFC has not received any detailed governance, financial, or legal analysis regarding this proposal and its potential impact, which is completely unacceptable. More importantly, the AFC is deeply concerned that FIFA's unilateral actions appear to be undermining the foundations of continental football, which are built on principles of unity, cooperation, and transparency."

The Kuala Lumpur-based AFC is one of FIFA's six continental confederations, responsible for managing national team and club competitions across Asia, the Middle East, and Australia.

Salman stated that the plan cannot be successfully implemented without the support of all continental confederations. He called for the proposal by FIFA President Infantino to undergo "full review and discussion" through appropriate legal and governance channels. He also questioned the limited time FIFA gave member associations to approve the plan.

This week, Infantino stated in a letter to FIFA's 211 member associations that if they agree to FIFA's plan by September 19, each association will receive $40 million.

Salman wrote in the letter: "The AFC is equally surprised by the current timeline. For such an important proposal, the time available for member associations to evaluate it is extremely limited, and such decisions should never be rushed. The AFC urges all member associations to await the outcome of these consultations and the completion of the necessary review process before forming any position on this proposal. I assure you that the AFC remains committed to constructive cooperation with all member associations, FIFA, and relevant stakeholders to promote the development of football and to ensure the continued growth of the sport is built on trust, transparency, and unity."

As of now, FIFA has not immediately responded to Reuters' request for comment on the letter.

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