July 31 (UPI) -- FIFA dropped Friday a plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors after severe backlash from worldwide soccer confederations.

The beleaguered Infantino said he would focus now on restoring harmony while continuing to grow the game.

FIFA has withdrawn its controversial plan to sell a stake in a commercial entity that would oversee the World Cup and other major tournaments after fierce opposition from UEFA and member associations, dealing a major blow to president Gianni Infantino.

Gianni Infantino is abandoning his divisive plan to sell World Cup profits to private equity after receiving pushback from all corners of the soccer world.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is abandoning his divisive plan to sell World Cup profits to private equity after receiving pushback from all corners of the soccer world.

The Asian Football Confederation expressed "deep concern" about the proposed establishment of a US$20 billion commercial subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), to run the World Cup and FIFA's other events.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is abandoning his divisive plan to sell World Cup profits to private equity after receiving pushback from all corners of the soccer world.

Europe’s football governing body said the tournament should not be seen as an investment product and is 'not for sale'.