The International Olympic Committee wants more discussions over controversial plans by world football body FIFA to hold the World Cup every two years, instead of every four.
FIFA's 211 member associations will vote on the proposals in December, with president Gianni Infantino - also an IOC member - travelling the world to rally support for a plan fronted by former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.
But the plan has met with fierce criticism from continental and national federations, players' groups and fans.
European body UEFA has concerns over the impact of such a switch, including the "dilution" of the World Cup's value, risks of players being overworked and women's football suffering from annual men's tournaments.
"A number of international federations of other sports, national football federations, clubs, players, player associations and coaches have expressed strong reservations and concerns regarding the plans to generate more revenue for FIFA," says the IOC executive board.
"The IOC shares these concerns, and supports the calls of stakeholders of football, international sports federations and major event organisers for a wider consultation, including with athletes' representatives, which has obviously not taken place."
Regardless of the outcome of a vote, European and South American clubs, leagues and confederations are confident they can stop the plan, sources have told Reuters, raising the prospect of a damaging split in the international game.
UEFA has threatened to boycott an additional World Cup, while South American body CONMEBOL also opposes the plans.
Reuters
