African Backing Strengthens Gianni Infantino as UEFA Keeps FIFA Boycott Option Open

RABAT: FIFA President Gianni Infantino has received a significant political boost after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) unanimously endorsed his leadership ahead of the governing body’s presidential election. However, the backing has done little to ease growing concerns over FIFA’s governance, with UEFA maintaining its criticism and refusing to soften its position.

CAF, representing 54 member associations and one of FIFA’s largest voting blocs, pledged its continued support for Infantino as he prepares to seek another term in office. CAF President Patrice Motsepe reaffirmed the confederation’s commitment to working with FIFA while emphasizing the importance of transparency, due process and good governance in global football.

The endorsement comes at a time when FIFA is facing intense scrutiny following the collapse of a proposal to sell part of the commercial rights linked to the FIFA World Cup to private investors. The initiative triggered widespread opposition from several football associations and governing bodies, forcing FIFA to abandon the plan.

Despite FIFA’s decision to withdraw the proposal and launch a review of its internal decision-making process, UEFA said the conditions required to rebuild trust had not been fulfilled. Europe’s governing body reiterated that it had lost confidence in Infantino’s leadership and insisted that stronger assurances are needed before relations can improve.

UEFA also maintained that the withdrawal of the commercial rights proposal alone was insufficient, stressing that reforms must ensure similar initiatives are not pursued without proper consultation in the future. The organization stopped short of confirming whether member nations would boycott upcoming FIFA competitions but indicated its position remains unchanged.

South American football body CONMEBOL also expressed concern over what it described as unilateral decision-making within FIFA. The confederation called for greater institutional dialogue and stronger adherence to governance mechanisms, warning against actions that bypass established consultation processes.

Global players’ union FIFPRO joined the criticism, describing the abandoned investment proposal as an example of excessive presidential authority and questioning the transparency surrounding the discussions. The union argued that strategic decisions affecting world football should involve broader stakeholder participation.

FIFA, meanwhile, acknowledged shortcomings in communication and consultation during the proposal’s development but maintained that its actions complied with existing regulations. The organization has promised a comprehensive review of its governance procedures, with recommendations expected to be presented to the FIFA Council at a future meeting.

As the presidential election approaches, Infantino continues to enjoy considerable backing from associations across Africa and parts of Asia, where FIFA development funding plays an important role in football development. While support from some European and national football associations has weakened, no major challenger has yet emerged, leaving the incumbent in a strong political position despite continuing governance debates.