FIFA intensifies push to stage men's World Cup every two years

FIFA intensified its push for hosting the men's World Cup every two years on Thursday by garnering support from soccer fans around the world to help combat resistance from Europe and South America.

The latest public relations tactic came in the form on an online survey commissioned by FIFA. The Associated Press does not routinely report the claims of opinion polls conducted over the internet.

The FIFA statement did not provide data, details of the polling methodology or questions asked, but claimed its findings showed "considerable differences between the so-called traditional markets and the developing football markets."

European soccer body UEFA and South American counterpart CONMEBOL oppose FIFA's plan and have threatened to boycott additional World Cups. Europe and South America combine for 65 of the 211 FIFA members -- fewer than the one-third total likely needed to block any proposal.

The governing bodies of the six continental soccer federations all stage their own championships, with Europe hosting its tournament every four years halfway between the World Cups. Adding an extra World Cup in every four-year cycle would likely cut into the European event's revenue stream.