IOC 'shares concerns' over FIFA's biennial World Cup plan

France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris lifts the trophy after France won 4-2 during the final match between France and Croatia at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia. (Martin Meissner/AP)

The International Olympic Committee has called for a wider consultation on FIFA’s biennial World Cup plans and shares concerns over the proposal in a statement released by the IOC.

The committee pointed out the impact a biennial World Cup would have on other sports, like tennis, cycling, golf, gymnastics, swimming and athletics, among others. The IOC says it "would undermine the diversity and development of sports other than football."

They also stated concern over how it would affect gender equality in the sport and player welfare, as it would create extra physical and mental strain on soccer players.

Select clubs and federations have spoken out against a biennial World Cup in recent weeks, while others have voiced support for FIFA's plans.

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