Confederation of African Football (CAF) president Patrice Motsepe has stated that the future of under-pressure FIFA president Gianni Infantino should be determined by the organization’s 211 member associations during the elections scheduled for next March. Infantino, who is currently campaigning for re-election, has faced significant backlash from UEFA, the AFC, and CONCACAF. These confederations have publicly criticized his leadership and demanded his resignation following a failed attempt to secure private investment for FIFA tournaments, including the World Cup.
Despite this opposition, Motsepe maintains that the decision regarding Infantino’s tenure must rest with the full membership at the 77th Congress, which is set to take place in Rabat, Morocco, on March 18. Speaking to Sky News on Wednesday, Motsepe emphasized that the electoral process provides the appropriate venue for any leadership challenges. He encouraged potential rivals to formally submit their candidacies, noting that this is the correct way to address grievances within the governing body.
Motsepe stressed the importance of unity and cooperation, focusing on the need to navigate current challenges to ensure the continued growth of global football. While he acknowledged that leaders must be open to scrutiny and held accountable for their governance, he insisted that all complaints should be channeled through established FIFA protocols. He stated that if a leader fails to uphold due process, they should be subject to interrogation, but emphasized that the ultimate mechanism for removal is the ballot box.
“If anyone has got a problem against anybody, whether it’s Gianni or anybody else, follow the FIFA process. And if you want to take him out, go for elections. Simple as that,” Motsepe remarked. He added that the upcoming vote will serve as a clear indicator of whether the membership retains confidence in the current administration. For Motsepe, adhering to due process, governance, and legality remains non-negotiable for all parties involved.
Concluding his remarks, the CAF president confirmed that Infantino continues to hold the backing of the African confederation. Motsepe highlighted the FIFA president’s commitment to the region, stating, “He’s been loyal to African football. He enjoys the support of Africa.”
FIFA members should decide Infantino’s future at 2027 election, says CAF president
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