CAF Backs FIFA President Gianni Infantino Amid Controversy

CAF's Support for FIFA Leadership

Cairo, Egypt - On August 7, the executive committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) expressed its backing for FIFA President Gianni Infantino as he seeks to maintain his position. They also acknowledged the recent update provided by Infantino and Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom regarding the 'FIFA Forward Enterprise' initiative, as reported by a Media House.

In their official communication, CAF highlighted the update's acknowledgment of mistakes 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 aims to streamline the sale of FIFA's commercial rights, including broadcasting, sponsorship, ticketing, and licensing, along with the management of its tournaments.

The initiative aimed to generate up to USD 4.2 billion by offering minority, non-controlling stakes in the FFE to outside investors. However, after backlash from UEFA, the Football Association, and concerns from CONCACAF, FIFA decided to retract the proposal. Infantino and Grafstrom issued apologies for the missteps and committed to ensuring they would not recur, promising a review and a report to the FIFA Council in the upcoming meeting.

CAF's statement read, “The CAF Executive Committee unanimously supports the 'Joint Update' from the FIFA President and Secretary General regarding the FIFA Forward Enterprise. We will continue our efforts to elevate African football to global standards while adhering to best practices in governance and transparency.”

CAF acknowledged the errors mentioned in the 'Joint Update', stating, “We recognize that mistakes were made in the process of establishing the FIFA Forward Enterprise. It was never our intention for the FIFA Council and Member Associations to feel excluded, and we apologize for this oversight. We will conduct a thorough review and present our findings to the FIFA Council at its next meeting.”

CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe remarked, “CAF endorses the 'Joint Update' from FIFA's leadership. Our focus remains on enhancing African football and maintaining our commitment to global governance and transparency standards.”

He emphasized, “In Africa, adherence to governance and transparency is essential and non-negotiable. This is the standard we expect from our governments and institutions, and it is the same expectation we hold for CAF. We are dedicated to collaborating with FIFA, its Member Associations, and other stakeholders to uphold these principles and contribute to the global development of football.”

Motsepe added that progress is being made in discussions with current and potential sponsors and partners to ensure CAF's financial independence and the enhancement of football infrastructure. Preparations are also underway for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, along with other CAF competitions.

Furthermore, the CAF EXCO 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 their efforts in organizing a successful FIFA World Cup 2026.