FIFA president Gianni Infantino has been invited by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to attend a two-day Strategy Conference in Cape Verde next month. The conference, scheduled for October 7 and 8, will bring together the 54 presidents of CAF member associations. This invitation comes as Infantino faces a potential challenge to his leadership ahead of next year's FIFA presidential election.
CAF president Patrice Motsepe, a close ally of Infantino, had previously suggested the idea of the conference. The South African mining billionaire has expressed his support for Infantino, who is facing criticism from other parts of the footballing world. Last month, CAF's executive committee also expressed its support for Infantino, and several African football associations have followed suit.
Infantino's proposal to sell a stake of up to 20% in FIFA competitions, including the World Cup, to private investors had sparked fierce opposition from UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation, and CONCACAF. However, Africa expressed no objection to the plan and has since reaffirmed its support for Infantino. The endorsement from CAF is significant, given that Africa's 54 votes account for a substantial number of the 211 member associations that will vote in the election.
While past FIFA votes have often seen a split in the African vote, the support from CAF and individual African football associations could play a crucial role in securing Infantino's re-election. Infantino, 56, has confirmed he is standing for re-election, but no potential opponent has yet emerged. UEFA has stated that it is searching for a credible challenger.
The CAF conference agenda will be sent to member associations in due course. On October 9, a review of the 2026 World Cup will take place, to which the national team coach of every African association has been invited. The review will be led by former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, who is now FIFA's Chief of Global Football Development.
Reviews of tactical trends, refereeing, logistical matters, and other issues from the playing field have been hosted by FIFA on every continent after every World Cup since the 2010 finals in South Africa. This review will provide an opportunity for African football associations to discuss the tournament and share insights.
Infantino's re-election bid is expected to be closely watched, given the controversy surrounding his proposal to sell a stake in FIFA competitions. The outcome of the election will have significant implications for the future of football globally.
Key points
- CAF has expressed its support for Infantino amid a potential challenge to his FIFA leadership.
- Infantino faces opposition from UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation, and CONCACAF over his proposal to sell a stake in FIFA competitions.
- Africa's 54 votes could play a crucial role in securing Infantino's re-election as FIFA president.
