CAF: support for Infantino comes at the worst possible time for UEFA

CAF has chosen its side. As Gianni Infantino navigates one of the most delicate periods of his presidency at FIFA, the governing body of African football has just publicly reaffirmed its support for him.

A unanimous vote with major political consequences

On August 6, the CAF Executive Committee gave its unanimous backing to Infantino and his re-election as FIFA president in 2027. A strong political signal, coming at the very moment when the world football chief is facing growing opposition within European football.

The timing is no coincidence. For several weeks, relations between FIFA and UEFA have deteriorated sharply. The European body has challenged several positions championed by Infantino and has even maintained its threat to boycott certain FIFA competitions.

54 associations, a powerful ally

In this context, African support carries significant weight. With 54 member associations, CAF represents one of the main electoral forces within FIFA. The backing displayed by its president Patrice Motsepe therefore gives Infantino a key ally as the next presidential election approaches.

This closeness is nothing new. Since Infantino took charge of FIFA in 2016, relations with African football have strengthened considerably. FIFA has multiplied its investments across the continent, and Infantino has regularly appeared alongside African leaders. CAF has also praised his actions in support of African football development, particularly in the areas of infrastructure and competitions.

A governance battle that is only just beginning

Behind this show of support, what is really at stake is a war of influence. UEFA seeks to exert greater sway over the direction of world football, while Infantino can count on an African bloc that remains broadly favourable to his policies.

With less than a year to go before the 2027 election, the balance of power is beginning to take shape. And in this battle, Africa's support could carry far more weight than a mere token declaration. The power struggle at the summit of world football may only just be getting started.