Unanimous support has been confirmed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for the re-election of Gianni Infantino as president of FIFA ahead of the 2027 vote.
The decision was reached during a meeting held on Wednesday, April 29, 2026 in Vancouver, on the eve of the 76th FIFA Congress. It was stated that all 54 CAF member associations agreed to support Infantino for another term, which would run from 2027 to 2031.
In an official statement, it was said: “The Confederation of African Football (CAF) held a meeting on Wednesday 29 April 2026, in Vancouver, Canada on the eve of the 76th FIFA Congress and the CAF Member Associations unanimously agreed to support Gianni Infantino to be re-elected as President of FIFA for the period 2027-2031.”
Although his candidacy has not yet been formally declared, strong backing has continued to build. Earlier in the month, CONMEBOL had already pledged its support, becoming the first continental body to do so.
Since taking over from Sepp Blatter in 2016, Infantino has been re elected unopposed in both 2019 and 2023. During his tenure, major changes have been introduced in global football, including expanded tournaments and increased financial distribution.
Africa’s unified stance is considered significant, as its 54 votes account for a substantial portion of FIFA’s 211 member associations. This level of backing is expected to strengthen Infantino’s position ahead of the next election.
Close ties have been built between Infantino and CAF leadership, particularly with CAF president Patrice Motsepe. Through initiatives such as the FIFA Forward programme, increased funding and development support have been directed toward African football, alongside expanded World Cup slots and broader representation.
This working relationship has also been credited with helping CAF navigate a period of reform and stability following the tenure of former president Ahmad Ahmad.
Infantino’s presidency has been shaped by both growth and scrutiny. While financial expansion and new competitions like the Club World Cup have been introduced, criticism has also been raised over governance and centralised decision making.
Attention will now turn to the 77th FIFA Elective Congress, which is expected to be held in Morocco next year, where the next president will be officially decided. Meanwhile, FIFA meetings continue in Vancouver, with the 76th Congress set to take place this week.
