Pakistan, Aug. 1 -- FIFA has abandoned its controversial proposal to allow private investment in the commercial rights of the FIFA World Cup after widespread opposition from football confederations and national associations.

Read More: FIFA defends World Cup investment plan despite growing backlash

FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced the decision on Saturday, saying the governing body had decided not to proceed with the plan after it became clear that it had created significant divisions within the global football community.

"Our purpose has always been - and will always be - to unite and improve," Infantino said in a statement, adding that the proposal would not move forward.

The plan, unveiled earlier this week, sought to esta...