Eto'o backs Infantino, urges World Cup privatization review

Samuel Eto'o, the president of the Cameroonian Football Federation and a former football star, has reiterated his strong backing for FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Eto'o also called for FIFA to revisit the controversial proposal of privatizing the World Cup, suggesting it be put to a vote by member associations.

"President Gianni Infantino will continue to enjoy my support and the support of my federation," Eto'o stated in an interview with CNN. He praised Infantino for transforming football and providing opportunities for nations previously excluded from the World Cup. Eto'o described the privatization idea as "very good for African nations."

However, Eto'o expressed regret that Infantino abandoned the project due to what he termed "organized media coverage" against it. He indicated that his federation would submit a motion to FIFA for the proposal's re-examination. "He made a proposal. The 211 members were supposed to sit down, debate the issue and let the majority win. But I am convinced that the voices that rose up are not the voices of the majority," Eto'o asserted.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) had supported Infantino's privatization plan, contrasting with strong opposition from UEFA federations. Eto'o is convinced the project was "incredible for African countries" and would have "readjusted the balance of power in football to ensure that our talent does not disappear and end up playing for other nations."