Women's football shouldn't be penalised by Uefa boycott - Nandy

What the report says

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has said women’s football should not be caught up in a possible European boycott of next month’s Under-20 Women’s World Cup, according to BBC Sport. Her comments come as Uefa and its 55 member associations have threatened to stay away from Fifa competitions in response to president Gianni Infantino’s proposal to sell stakes in World Cup rights to private investors.

The tournament is due to be held in Poland from 5 to 27 September, with several Uefa nations involved, including England, Italy, Spain, Portugal and France. BBC Sport reported that the Polish Football Association said it had not been told of any team withdrawals and hoped the dispute would be resolved quickly so young players from around the world can compete.

Nandy said she wants Infantino to resign and backed the English FA’s stance that football should remain in the hands of fans. However, she said she would not support a boycott of the women’s event, arguing that sporting boycotts unfairly affect athletes who are not responsible for the dispute.

The BBC noted that France has indicated it intends to take part, Portugal says its under-20 squad is still following its planned programme, and England has not yet confirmed its position, although preparations continue under coach Lydia Bedford.