African football body reaffirms support for FIFA chief Infantino after UEF A threats

The executive committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has unanimously reaffirmed its support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino. This backing comes in the wake of controversy surrounding Infantino's now-abandoned proposal to open FIFA to private investors.

CAF issued a statement on Thursday evening expressing its renewed allegiance. The African football governing body "welcomed" FIFA's apologies presented on Wednesday. CAF President Patrice Motsepe, quoted in the statement, emphasized that "respect for governance, regular procedures and transparency is essential and non-negotiable."

The controversy arose from a plan that would have allowed private investors to buy into FIFA's commercial activities, including media and marketing rights for its tournaments. This proposal faced significant backlash from various football stakeholders, leading FIFA to ultimately abandon the plan.

Infantino has been a central figure in FIFA's efforts to reform the organization since his election in 2016, following a major corruption scandal. His presidency has seen various initiatives aimed at increasing revenue and expanding the global reach of football, though some have been met with criticism.