African football leaders rally behind Infantino amid FIFA sell-off controversy

African football administrators have publicly backed FIFA President Gianni Infantino despite mounting criticism surrounding FIFA's abandoned proposal to sell a stake in the commercial rights of future World Cups.

According to Reuters and Al Jazeera, several influential officials from across the continent have defended Infantino's leadership as football's global governing body deals with the fallout from the controversial proposal, which was ultimately withdrawn after widespread opposition from several football associations and confederations.

Among those expressing support are CAF Vice President Fouzi Lekjaa, FIFA Council members representing Egypt, Niger and Mauritania, and DR Congo football federation president Veron Mosengo-Omba. Their backing comes at a time when parts of Europe and the CONCACAF region have questioned Infantino's leadership following the collapse of the proposed investment plan.

The proposed commercial structure aimed to attract billions of dollars in private investment by creating a new entity linked to FIFA competitions. However, the plan faced strong resistance from several football stakeholders, prompting FIFA to abandon the project before any vote by member associations.

African football's continued support reflects a long-standing relationship between FIFA and many of its member associations. Over the past decade, FIFA Forward funding has significantly increased financial support for infrastructure, youth development and football administration across the continent, making FIFA grants an important source of investment for numerous national federations.

With FIFA's presidential election approaching in 2027, Africa's 54 member associations remain an influential voting bloc. Their backing could prove significant as Infantino seeks another term while facing growing scrutiny from other parts of world football.