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CAF President Motsepe declares FIFA President Infantino a friend of Africa
Confederation of African Football President Patrice Motsepe defended FIFA President Gianni Infantino against criticism, describing him as a loyal servant of football and a friend of the African continent. Motsepe highlighted Infantino's contributions to African football.
Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe issued a strong statement of support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Speaking to journalists in Johannesburg, Motsepe described Infantino as "a loyal servant of football" and "a friend of the African continent," responding to criticism directed at him.
Motsepe praised Infantino's deep commitment to football and his determination to develop the game globally. The CAF President, who said "He has remained loyal to Africa and played a significant role in the development of football on the continent," stated that Infantino has been a key figure in increasing opportunities for African teams on the international stage.
This support comes against the backdrop of criticism Infantino has faced over decisions such as the suspension of US forward Folarin Balogun's ban during the 2026 World Cup, the implementation of water breaks, and the expansion of the tournament to 64 teams.
Under Infantino's leadership, Africa increased its World Cup quota from four direct qualification spots to 10 teams. The continent was represented by a record number of teams at the 2026 tournament.
Infantino, who replaced Sepp Blatter in 2016, is aiming for re-election for a fourth term in 2027. Africa's 54 national federations, which form the largest voting bloc within FIFA, are of critical importance in this process.
In April, the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) became the first continental federation to openly support Infantino's re-election, and CAF soon joined in that support.
However, discontent is growing among some European federations and their allies. Spanish La Liga President Javier Tebas said this week that Infantino's "time is up." Speaking to Italy's La Gazzetta dello Sport, Tebas claimed that a "fundamentally flawed system" has allowed Infantino to run world football for a decade.
Tebas took aim at the World Cup, saying, "They are destroying the football industry, which provides employment to tens of thousands of people, for the sake of an event that lasts only 40 days and involves a small number of players."
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