• CAF unanimously confirms support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino amid global criticism.
• Infantino's leadership is backed particularly due to the FIFA Forward programme benefiting African nations.
• CAF's support contrasts sharply with Europe's UEFA and others, who threaten to boycott FIFA tournaments.
• Key African football leaders reaffirm their allegiance to Infantino's re-election bid.
• Patrice Motsepe emphasizes the need for good governance alongside continued support for Infantino.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has unanimously reaffirmed its support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino during a recent executive committee meeting. This decision comes at a time when Infantino faces intense scrutiny and backlash from football associations in Europe, North America, and Asia, particularly regarding an aborted proposal to privatize parts of the FIFA World Cup's revenue stream. The CAF's backing is significant as it represents 54 of FIFA's 211 member associations, positioning it as a powerful voting bloc that has supported Infantino since he took office in 2016, according to BBC and Reuters.

In a statement released by the CAF, support for Infantino was emphasized alongside gratitude for his contributions to African football. Patrice Motsepe, the CAF president, acknowledged Infantino's commitment while also calling for greater governance and transparency within football governance. Infantino’s leadership was particularly appreciated in terms of his initiatives, such as the FIFA Forward programme, which has provided financial backing to many under-resourced football programs across Africa, as highlighted by Africanews and Al Jazeera.

CAF's support offers some relief to Infantino, who has been facing widespread criticism for his management of FIFA, especially after his controversial proposal prompted a fierce revolt among national federations. His removal of the proposal, which he withdrew following backlash, was viewed as a politically wise decision by several African football leaders, further solidifying their allegiance to him. Notable figures from the African football leadership, like Hany Abo Rida of Egypt and Hamidou Djibrilla of Niger, have publicly confirmed their support as well, as reported by BBC and Reuters.

In stark contrast, leading bodies such as UEFA have made their discontent known, threatening to boycott FIFA events, while other regions like South America and Asia have also registered their criticisms. This contrasts sharply with the universal support shown by CAF, emphasizing the significant divide in international football governance currently. Motsepe's remarks highlight a commitment to maintaining relations with FIFA, while fostering policies that ensure adherence to best practices in governance, according to Africanews and Al Jazeera.