CAF Backs FIFA President Gianni Infantino Amid Forward Enterprise Controversy

CAF Expresses Support for FIFA Leadership

The executive committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has voiced its backing for FIFA President Gianni Infantino as he strives to maintain his position. They have also acknowledged the recent update provided by Infantino and Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom regarding the 'FIFA Forward Enterprise' initiative.

FIFA Acknowledges Mistakes in Forward Enterprise Initiative

In an official statement, CAF highlighted the update's content, which admitted to errors made during the establishment of the proposed 'FIFA Forward Enterprise'. Both FIFA and Infantino have faced significant criticism following the announcement of this initiative, which aimed to consolidate FIFA's commercial rights, including broadcasting, sponsorship, ticketing, and licensing, while also managing tournament operations. The plan sought to generate up to USD 4.2 billion by selling minority, non-controlling stakes in the FFE to outside investors. However, after backlash from UEFA and the Football Association, as well as concerns from CONCACAF, FIFA decided to retract the proposal. Infantino and Grafstrom have since apologized for the mistakes and committed to ensuring they do not recur, promising a review with findings to be presented at the next FIFA Council meeting.

CAF Endorses FIFA's Update

CAF's statement expressed, "The CAF Executive Committee ('EXCO') unanimously endorses the 'Joint Update' by the FIFA President and Secretary General regarding the FIFA Forward Enterprise. We will continue to strive for excellence in African football while adhering to global best practices in governance and transparency."

The statement further noted, "We recognize that mistakes occurred during the proposed establishment of the FIFA Forward Enterprise. It was never our intention for the FIFA Council and FIFA Member Associations to feel excluded from this process, and it should have been managed differently. We sincerely apologize for these errors and are committed to preventing their recurrence. A necessary review will be conducted, and a report will be submitted to the FIFA Council at its next scheduled meeting."

CAF President Reiterates Commitment to Governance

CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe stated, "CAF welcomes and endorses the 'Joint Update' from FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom. Our focus remains on elevating African football to global standards while reaffirming our commitment to governance, transparency, and auditing best practices."

He emphasized, "In Africa, adherence to governance, due process, and transparency is essential and non-negotiable. This is the standard we expect from our governments, businesses, and institutions, and it is the conduct we demand from CAF. We are dedicated to collaborating with FIFA, its Member Associations, and other stakeholders to uphold these principles and contribute to the growth of football worldwide. CAF will also continue to develop our players, coaches, and national teams across the continent."

Advancements in African Football Development

"Significant progress is being made in discussions with current and prospective sponsors, partners, and investors to ensure CAF's financial independence and the enhancement of football infrastructure, including stadiums. Preparations are also underway for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations ('AFCON') in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda ('PAMOJA') and other CAF competitions," the statement concluded.

CAF Reaffirms Support for Infantino

The CAF EXCO has unanimously reaffirmed its support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino, expressing gratitude for his contributions to African football over the years. They also thanked Infantino, Secretary Grafstrom, and the FIFA Administration for successfully organizing the FIFA World Cup 2026.