CAF renews its support for Gianni Infantino

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially renewed its support for Gianni Infantino following the controversy surrounding the FIFA Forward Enterprise program. By siding with FIFA’s current leadership, the African body distances itself from some critical voices, particularly in Europe, and could play a major role in the upcoming FIFA presidential election scheduled for March 2027.

The African front is closing ranks around Gianni Infantino. Meeting on Thursday, August 6, 2026, the CAF Executive Committee unanimously approved the “joint update” presented by the FIFA president and his secretary general, Mattias Grafström, regarding the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) file. This decision is a clear show of support for the current governance of world football’s governing body.

In its statement, CAF also reaffirmed its backing for FIFA president Gianni Infantino and praised his commitment to the development of African football in recent years. The organization, led by Patrice Motsepe, particularly emphasized the need to uphold principles of governance, transparency, and oversight, while acknowledging that improvements are needed in the management of the FFE project.

CAF endorses FIFA’s apology over the FFE affair

This stance comes just days after the crisis meeting held by FIFA in Rabat, Morocco, following the abandonment of the FIFA Forward Enterprise project. The program, which was intended to open up part of FIFA’s investments to private partners, raised concerns due to a creation process seen by several stakeholders as insufficiently inclusive.

In response to the criticism, FIFA’s leadership admitted to “mistakes” in the procedure and issued an apology to the FIFA Council members and affiliated associations. An internal investigation is also set to be conducted before a report is presented to the FIFA Council.

CAF has thus chosen to endorse this approach and move on, while stressing that transparency and adherence to procedures remain “non-negotiable.”

A strategic choice ahead of March 2027

Beyond the FFE issue, this statement carries significant political weight. With its 54 member associations, CAF represents the largest voting bloc within FIFA. Its support could therefore prove decisive in the presidential election slated for March 2027.

Since taking the helm of FIFA in 2016, Gianni Infantino has consistently strengthened his ties with African football. Under his leadership, FIFA has increased funding for federations through the FIFA Forward program and multiplied infrastructure and development projects across the continent.

This close relationship partly explains CAF’s position, believing that cooperation with FIFA remains essential for the continued professionalization of African football.

A contrast with European criticism

The African stance stands in stark contrast to the reservations expressed in some corners of European football, particularly regarding FIFA’s governance and the concentration of power at the top.

While certain European federations are demanding more guarantees on decision-making processes, CAF is for now opting for support and cooperation. It’s a move that could further bolster Africa’s influence in future power dynamics.

In summary, Patrice Motsepe and CAF are determined to remain a major partner for Gianni Infantino and could become a decisive player in the battle for the FIFA presidency in 2027.

Nouya M'toama

Editorfr, en

Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.

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