CAF backs Infantino for FIFA re-election bid
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has unanimously reaffirmed its backing for FIFA President Gianni Infantino as he prepares to seek another term leading world football’s governing body, according to Africanews.
CAF, one of FIFA’s six continental confederations and representing 54 national associations across Africa, expressed its support at a meeting, thanking Infantino for his role in developing football on the continent. The endorsement carries significant political weight: Africa’s 54 votes form the largest single bloc among FIFA’s 211 member associations, a factor that has historically shaped the outcome of FIFA presidential contests.
Infantino, a Swiss-Italian football administrator, was elected FIFA president in February 2016, succeeding Sepp Blatter, who had been suspended amid a major corruption scandal that engulfed the organisation. He was re-elected unopposed in June 2019 and has since presided over the expansion of the World Cup format and the creation of new international competitions, though several of these decisions have drawn criticism from clubs, players and pundits.
The description of Infantino as “embattled” in some reporting reflects ongoing scrutiny from various quarters, including questions about governance decisions and internal management. CAF’s renewed endorsement signals that African football authorities nonetheless view his leadership as having delivered benefits to the continent, framing him as a reliable partner in the development of the sport in Africa.
Africa’s unified position has long been a decisive force in FIFA politics. With the next presidential vote widely expected to take place at the FIFA Congress in 2027, the continent’s consolidated support strengthens Infantino’s position considerably, provided no rival candidate emerges in the interim.
Sources
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