FIFA election to decide Infantino’s future in March, says Motsepe

Patrice Motsepe, president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), has said that the future of FIFA president Gianni Infantino will be decided by the organization’s 211 member associations during the upcoming election in March.

Infantino, who is seeking another term, is facing mounting pressure after three continental bodies—the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA), the Asian Football Confederation, and the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF)—criticized his leadership and called for his resignation following his failed attempt to attract private investment to FIFA competitions, including the World Cup.

Speaking to Sky News on Wednesday, Motsepe said the election, scheduled to take place during FIFA’s 77th Congress in Rabat, Morocco, on March 18, should be the decisive factor in determining Infantino’s future.

He added: “The election will be held next year, and we must allow the process to follow its natural course and leave the decision to the 211 members. If anyone wishes to run against him, they should put their name forward—that is the proper procedure.”

The CAF president emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation within football institutions, stressing the need to focus on developing and growing the game amid current challenges, and to address and resolve issues rather than allowing them to affect football’s future.

Motsepe also noted that football officials should be ready to accept accountability and oversight, affirming that FIFA has clear procedures for handling any complaints or objections.

He said: “If, as president, I act in a way that does not reflect proper legal procedures or good governance, I should be held accountable and questioned.”

He added that anyone with objections to Infantino or other FIFA officials should follow the official procedures, explaining that those seeking a change in leadership can do so through the election.

He continued: “Let the 211 member associations decide. The vote will show whether they trust him or not. Everyone has the right to a fair judgment and fair treatment, and all voices should be heard.”

Motsepe stressed that adherence to due process, governance, and legitimacy are fundamental principles that cannot be compromised, while also reaffirming CAF’s continued support for Infantino.

The CAF president said: “He has been dedicated to African football, and he has Africa’s support.”