Africa backs Infantino for FIFA re-election as all 54 member associations pledge support in Cabo Verde

LBy Angu Lesley

Football Writer,kick442.com-Cameroon

African football has thrown its weight behind FIFA president Gianni Infantino, with all 54 member associations of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pledging their unconditional support for his re-election at a meeting in Cabo Verde on Thursday, October 8. The announcement represents a significant boost for Infantino as he prepares for the FIFA presidential election scheduled for March 2027, with Africa presenting a united front behind his bid to remain at the head of world football.

The declaration was made during the CAF Strategy Conference in Santa Maria, on Sal Island, where Infantino joined CAF president Patrice Motsepe and football leaders from across the continent. The three-day gathering, running from October 7 to 9, was organised to discuss the development and long-term sustainability of African football, including lessons from the 2026 FIFA World Cup and preparations for the 2030 edition. However, the unanimous backing for Infantino has emerged as one of the meeting’s biggest political developments, underlining the importance of Africa’s support in the global football leadership contest.

Motsepe has praised Infantino’s contribution to African football, highlighting the relationship between FIFA and CAF and the resources made available to member associations. FIFA’s development funding has become an important part of that relationship, helping national federations invest in infrastructure, administration and football programmes. Infantino, for his part, has reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the continent, promising further resources while calling for continued cooperation between FIFA and its members.

The support comes at a crucial time for Infantino, who is seeking another term amid debate over FIFA’s leadership and governance. His position in Africa is now clear, but the wider election landscape remains significant, with questions about transparency, commercial decisions and the direction of world football continuing to attract attention. With African associations representing 54 of FIFA’s 211 member associations, their collective declaration gives Infantino a substantial bloc of support ahead of the vote.

For African football, the key question is what this backing will deliver beyond the election. Federations across the continent continue to seek better facilities, stronger youth and women’s competitions, improved refereeing, sustainable domestic leagues and greater opportunities for African teams to compete at the highest level. The Cabo Verde conference is intended to address many of these priorities, with Motsepe stressing the importance of translating increased funding into tangible improvements in football standards. Africa’s support for Infantino is therefore both a major political statement and an opportunity for the continent’s leaders to push for continued investment and meaningful progress.