Confederation of African Football President Patrice Motsepe has thrown his support behind FIFA President Gianni Infantino, describing the Swiss administrator as a committed leader who has consistently supported football development in Africa.
Motsepe made the remarks on Wednesday in Johannesburg amid growing criticism of Infantino over several decisions by world football’s governing body, including the handling of the suspension of United States striker Folarin Balogun during the recently concluded 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Infantino has also faced scrutiny over the introduction of hydration breaks and proposals to expand the men’s World Cup to 64 teams.
“I like his deep love for football, deep commitment to football in the world and support for Africa,” Motsepe told journalists.
The CAF president praised Infantino for what he described as his loyalty to the continent and his role in creating greater opportunities for African teams on the international stage.
“Gianni has played a pivotal role in expanding opportunities for African national teams on the global stage,” Motsepe said.
He pointed to the increase in Africa’s World Cup allocation, which now includes four additional direct qualification places and an extra playoff berth. A record 10 African teams participated in the 2026 tournament, which was co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Infantino, who succeeded Sepp Blatter as FIFA president in 2016, is expected to seek a fourth term in office at the 2027 election.
Africa is regarded as a significant bloc in FIFA politics, with the 54 member associations under CAF representing the largest unified voting group among the six continental confederations.
South American football governing body CONMEBOL became the first confederation to publicly endorse Infantino’s re-election bid in April, with CAF subsequently adding its support.
However, opposition to Infantino’s leadership has been growing in parts of Europe, with reports suggesting that a European-backed candidate could emerge to challenge him.
Javier Tebas, president of the Spanish football league, recently declared that Infantino’s time in charge was “over”, accusing the FIFA leadership of operating within a system he described as fundamentally flawed.
Tebas also criticised FIFA’s approach to international competitions, arguing that recent decisions could have a damaging impact on the football industry.
