Africa backs Infantino as CAF unanimously votes in FIFA president’s favour | Sport News
CAF Affirms Support for FIFA President Amid Controversy
Published August 7, 2026
The Executive Committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has unanimously reiterated its support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino, diverging from the stances of football governing bodies in Europe, North America, and Asia.
On Thursday, as UEFA announced its commitment to boycotting future World Cups while Infantino remains in office, CAF aligned itself with the FIFA president, who is seeking re-election in March 2027. Infantino has faced increasing scrutiny following failed proposals concerning the commercialization of World Cup revenues.
CAF, which consists of 54 of FIFA’s 211 member associations, represents a significant voting bloc that has largely backed Infantino since he took office in 2016. In a statement, CAF expressed gratitude for Infantino’s contributions to African football.
“CAF has unanimously reconfirmed its support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino,” the organization stated.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe welcomed FIFA’s commitment to reviewing the controversial processes that led to this latest crisis, wherein national federations complained of being excluded from discussions about the proposed sale of World Cup commercial rights.
“CAF supports the ‘Joint Update’ presented by FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom,” Motsepe stated, while emphasizing the importance of good governance and transparency within global football. “We are committed to collaborating with FIFA, its member associations, other football confederations, and stakeholders to ensure adherence to governance and transparency best practices.”
The backing from CAF seeks to bolster Infantino’s position, which has been challenged due to widespread criticism over his canceled initiative to establish the FIFA Forward Enterprise and sell a portion of World Cup profits.
Earlier this week, five influential African football leaders expressed their support for Infantino and endorsed the decision to abandon the controversial revenue-sharing plan. Notable supporters include CAF Vice President Fouzi Lekjaa from Morocco and FIFA Council members Hany Abo Rida (Egypt), Hamidou Djibrilla (Niger), and Ahmed Yahya (Mauritania). Veron Mosengo-Omba, the newly elected president of the football federation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, also voiced his support.
Motsepe had previously praised Infantino, asserting, “I personally support Gianni Infantino. He’s not just a good friend. He’s a loyal friend to Africa. In my experience, loyalty should never be betrayed.”
FIFA continues to stand behind Infantino, further solidifying his position amid the challenges he faces.
