Gianni Infantino, the President of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA), is currently facing significant pressure from influential football federations across Europe, North America, and Asia. Amidst this backdrop, Patrice Motsepe, President of the African Football Confederation (CAF), has asserted that the ultimate decision regarding the leadership of global football, specifically the top position within FIFA, rests solely with all 211 member federations.
Infantino is currently campaigning for re-election as FIFA president, with the electoral process culminating at the federal assembly set to be held in Morocco in March 2027.
The Swiss national’s re-election intentions have reportedly encountered setbacks following strong criticism from three major continental football confederations: Europe (UEFA), North America (CONCACAF), and Asia (AFC). This dissent was primarily ignited by Infantino’s controversial proposal to sell shares of FIFA to private investors, referred to as FFE, and his plans concerning the hosting rights for both men’s and women’s World Cup tournaments.
Consequently, UEFA, CONCACAF, and the AFC, alongside several prominent European football federations—including those from England, Spain, Wales, and France—have expressed significant dissatisfaction and distrust. Some have even gone as far as to demand Infantino’s resignation.
Despite this opposition, Infantino maintains the backing of the FIFA Executive Board. He notably receives strong support from the African Football Confederation (CAF), an organization led by President Patrice Motsepe.
The CAF president’s recent statements appear to be aimed at de-escalating the ongoing tensions. He unequivocally affirmed that the decision regarding the FIFA chairmanship ultimately lies with all 211 member federations.
In an interview with Sky News, Motsepe stated, “Elections will be held next year, we should allow them to run well and should be left to all 211 members of the federation to decide on this. If there are any candidates who want to compete with Infantino, they should name them; that’s the right thing to do.”
Motsepe, a 64-year-old South African, further emphasized the importance of unity within the federation to ensure the continued development and prosperity of football. He stressed the need for collaborative efforts to tackle the numerous challenges facing the sport. He also reiterated his pro-Infantino stance, indicating that CAF and its member federations would continue to offer their support.
