FIFA members must decide Infantino's fate in 2027 election, says CAF president

The future of FIFA President Gianni Infantino should be determined by the organization's 211 member associations during the upcoming elections in March, according to Confederation of African Football (CAF) president Patrice Motsepe. Infantino, who is seeking re-election, has encountered significant opposition following a failed attempt to introduce private investment into FIFA competitions, including the World Cup. Three confederations, UEFA, AFC, and CONCACAF, have openly criticized his actions and called for his departure.

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Elections are taking place next year. We should allow that process to continue and let the 211 members decide.

Motsepe believes that the decision on Infantino's presidency rests with all FIFA members at the 77th Congress in Rabat, Morocco. "Elections are taking place next year. We should allow that process to continue and let the 211 members decide," Motsepe told Sky News. He added that if other candidates wish to challenge Infantino, they should present themselves. "That's the right thing," he stated.

Focusing on unity and development, Motsepe stressed the importance of growing football amidst current challenges. "We must deal with those challenges, resolve them and move on," he urged. He acknowledged that leaders should be open to scrutiny and that FIFA has established processes for handling complaints. "If I, as a president, behave in a manner that does not reflect due process or governance, I should be subject to interrogation and have those questions asked of me," Motsepe said.

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If I, as a president, behave in a manner that does not reflect due process or governance, I should be subject to interrogation and have those questions asked of me.

He further advised that any grievances should be addressed through FIFA's official channels. "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 asserted. He reiterated that the member associations' vote would reflect their confidence in Infantino, emphasizing that "Everybody is entitled to fair judgement and fair treatment. Everybody should be heard. Due process, governance and legality are non-negotiable."

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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 confirmed that Infantino retains CAF's support. "He's been loyal to African football. He enjoys the support of Africa," he stated, reinforcing Africa's backing for the current FIFA president.

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He's been loyal to African football. He enjoys the support of Africa.