In brief
Africa’s football community remains a key pillar of support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino, especially following the controversial proposal to sell stakes in global competitions to private investors. The continent’s confederation and several national federations—most notably Morocco, Egypt, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Nigeria—have publicly reaffirmed their backing, citing the financial lifelines of FIFA’s Forward programme and its investments in infrastructure and development. While some African voices applaud Infantino’s contributions, concerns over governance, transparency and a shift beyond financial aid persist, reflecting a complex mix of loyalty and aspirations for greater autonomy.
For now, beleaguered Fifa president Gianni Infantino still has allies in world football.
Infantino’s position has been under scrutiny since his controversial plan to sell stakes in Fifa’s global competitions to private investors was scrapped.
The African confederation (CAF) has yet to take an official stance, but leading African football administrators have sent messages in support of Infantino. Five of the seven African countries on the Fifa Council—Egypt, Morocco, Niger, Mauritania and Comoros—have already backed him publicly.
Support from the continent largely stems from Fifa’s Forward programme, a funding scheme Infantino introduced in 2016 that many African federations rely on to fund football projects in areas where commercial and government investment is limited.
Morocco: A Strong Partner
Morocco’s rise as one of Africa’s football success stories has been driven by government funding and has positioned the country as a key partner for Fifa. Morocco’s capital, Rabat, hosts Fifa’s Africa regional office and has hosted major tournaments, including the Fifa Club World Cup and a women’s U17 World Cup. Morocco will also co‑host the men’s 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal.
Moroccan football president Fouzi Lekjaa reaffirmed his support for Infantino after he withdrew the controversial Forward Enterprise proposal, describing the decision as "wise" and emphasising unity across Fifa’s 211 member associations.
Egypt: A Long‑Lasting Ally
Egypt is home to the CAF headquarters and remains one of Infantino’s strongest institutional allies in Africa. The influence of Hany Abo Rida, a Fifa Council member, has maintained close ties since Infantino’s election.
During Infantino’s presidency, Egypt benefited from the Forward programme, funding infrastructure, youth development, coach education and women’s football. There is growing expectation that Fifa’s engagement extends beyond financial aid to better governance and sustainable development.
DR Congo: Support and Pragmatism
The Congolese Football Federation welcomed Infantino’s decision to withdraw the Forward Enterprise proposal, calling it "wise" and stressing that his decade of work supporting African federations should not be overlooked. The federation highlighted its gains from Fifa programmes in development and infrastructure.
Nigeria: Practical Needs and Strategic Support
The Nigeria Football Federation largely aligns with Infantino, recognising the need for financial boosts amid chronic funding constraints and infrastructure needs. Infantino’s proposed plans were seen as a source of needed capital, with Nigeria eligible for up to $8m in Fifa Forward funding.
Key Forward projects include the redevelopment of the NFF Technical Centre in Abuja, a multi‑million investment in pitches and accommodation for national teams.
Beyond Support: Voices and Concerns
Not all African stakeholders are unanimous. The Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture of South Africa praised Infantino’s good work for African football, warning against public vilification. Malawi and Uganda affirm Fifa investment’s vital role, yet express financial realities for building infrastructure.
The Gambia Football Federation encourages Infantino’s re‑election, noting his loyalty to Africa. Sierra Leone’s former FA president Isha Johansen opposed the proposal, citing risks of over‑commercialisation.
Some African members remain silent, including Senegal, whose football team is among the continent’s best.
Reporting by Tom McArthur, Celestine Karoney, Mohamed Alkaaoud, Emery Makumeno, and Emmanuel Akindubuwa. Adapted for quanta.report.
