While some of the African nations were complaining about World Cup 2026, the Confederation of African Football has now given beleaguered FIFA President Gianni Infantino its full support.

The African nations say he is a very good head of FIFA and has done nothing wrong. In fact, they say he will help bring in more revenue. They will be giving Infantino their support at next March’s re-election.

“The CAF EXCO unanimously reaffirmed its support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino and thanked him for his support for African football over the years.

“CAF welcomes and endorses the “Joint Update” by FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Secretary General Matthias Grafstrom. We are committed to continue working with FIFA, its member associations, other football Confederations and stakeholders to safeguard and adhere to governance, due process and transparency, global best practices and to contribute to the development and growth of football worldwide.”

Infantino has faced a firestorm for controversies that beset the World Cup held this year in the United States, Canada and Mexico. President Trump called him and asked whether a red card given to an American player could be overturned. It was. Political power had its way, trumping football rules. Then Infantino wanted to push a plan which would see investors buying a stake in the World Cup for billions of dollars, a plan overwhelmingly rejected by most footballing nations.

Commentators, ex-footballers, and analysts were of the opinion that the potential sale would bring world football into disrepute.

Morocco has been particularly supportive of Infantino. UEFA, CONCACAF and AFN all want Infantino to step down and see FIFA be run in a sound and professional manner free of scandals. In this respect, Arsene Wegner would be a good replacement for Infantino. 

The Confederation of African Football comprises 54 of FIFA’s 211 member associations and forms Infantino’s strongest ally.

The President of the Confederation of African Football, Patrice Motsepe, made his feelings clear, declaring, “I personally support Gianni Infantino. He’s not just a good friend. He’s a loyal friend. He’s loyal to Africa. I come from a background where when people have been loyal to you, you never stab them in the back.”