The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially voiced its support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino ahead of the election scheduled for March next year. This move comes as Infantino faces criticism from numerous member associations worldwide over plans to sell part of the commercial revenues from future World Cups.
According to CAF's announcement, its Executive Committee (EXCO) unanimously reaffirmed support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino and thanked him for his assistance to African football over the years.
CAF, comprising 54 member associations out of FIFA's total 211 members, is considered a crucial voting bloc and has largely backed Infantino since he took office in 2016.
Speaking at the meeting, CAF President Patrice Motsepe welcomed FIFA's commitment to review the processes that led to the controversy, seen as the fiercest revolt of Infantino's tenure. Motsepe also stressed the need for good governance, transparency, and adherence to procedures in global football.
“CAF welcomes and endorses the joint statement by FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Secretary-General Mattias Grafstrom,” Motsepe said. “We are committed to continuing to work with FIFA, member associations, and stakeholders to uphold governance practices, procedures, and transparency, contributing to the development of world football.”
CAF's support is seen as a lifeline for Infantino as he faces near-global condemnation over plans to establish FIFA Forward Enterprise and sell World Cup commercial rights. Earlier, UEFA and federations in Europe, North America, and Asia had taken a hard line, even threatening to boycott future World Cups if Infantino remains in office.
Earlier this week, five of Africa's most influential football leaders issued a statement backing Infantino and welcoming the scrapping of the controversial plan. These leaders include CAF Vice-President Fouzi Lekjaa (Morocco), FIFA Council members Hany Abo Rida (Egypt), Hamidou Djibrilla (Niger), and Ahmed Yahya (Mauritania). The new president of the Congolese Football Federation, Veron Mosengo-Omba, also expressed support.
In a previous statement, the CAF President had praised Infantino: “I personally support Gianni Infantino. He is not only a good friend but a loyal friend. He has been loyal to Africa. I come from a background where when someone is loyal to you, you never turn your back on them.”
FIFA itself also issued a statement fully backing Infantino in the middle of the week.
