With the FIFA presidential election scheduled for February 26, the race to succeed Sepp Blatter is intensifying. Among the five officially nominated candidates, Tokyo Sexwale, the South African businessman and politician, has issued a bold statement regarding his vision for the organization and the kind of leadership he believes is needed at FIFA.
Speaking to Metro FM, a South African radio station, Sexwale addressed the ongoing issues that have plagued FIFA in recent years. “The main problems at FIFA are accountability and credibility. I will do everything to ensure that the FIFA president is from Africa or Asia, but not from Europe,” he declared. His remarks highlight his commitment to representing regions that he believes have been underrepresented in the global football governing body.
Sexwale also encouraged voters in **Conmebol** and **UEFA** to cast their votes strategically. “I ask them to vote to send a strong and positive message,” he said. He emphasized that his campaign is not only about his personal ambition but also about the broader need for reforms and inclusivity within FIFA. “For me, it’s not just about the presidency. The time for alliances has come, and it’s healthy, it’s democratic,” Sexwale added, underscoring his approach to coalition-building and collaborative leadership.
The South African candidate is competing against four other nominees: **Sheikh Salman of Bahrain**, **Prince Ali of Jordan**, **Gianni Infantino of Italy/Switzerland**, and **Jérôme Champagne of France**. Each candidate brings a unique background and platform, reflecting the global diversity of football administration and the different visions for FIFA’s future.
Sexwale’s campaign is particularly focused on addressing governance challenges that have shaken FIFA’s reputation. By advocating for leadership from Africa or Asia, he aims to challenge the traditional dominance of European candidates and ensure that all regions have a stronger voice in the organization’s decision-making. His message resonates with many football associations seeking transparency, ethical governance, and equitable representation on the world stage.
Currently, Tokyo Sexwale is in **Qatar**, where he is attending the final of the **Asian Nations Championship** between South Korea and Japan this weekend. This engagement underscores his continued involvement in football events across the globe and his effort to strengthen ties with key stakeholders in Asian football.
As the election draws closer, the dynamics between the candidates are expected to shift rapidly. France’s recent endorsement of **Gianni Infantino** has already made headlines, and Sexwale’s remarks signal a growing strategic effort to rally support from African and Asian football associations. With alliances forming and debates intensifying, the February 26 election promises to be a decisive moment for FIFA, potentially reshaping the leadership and direction of world football for years to come.
