Gianni Infantino is best person for African football – South African Sports Minister McKenzie

In the wake of criticism against FIFA President Gianni Infantino over organisational challenges at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, South African Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has insisted he remains the best man to lead the global game.

Infantino has come under fire following visa complications that saw Somali referee Omar Artan denied entry to the United States, among other issues casting a shadow over the tournament.

However, speaking in an interview with renowned journalist Robert Marawa on his popular Marawa Sports Worldwide programme in Mexico, McKenzie dismissed claims that Infantino has done little to support Africa in the wake of the Artan situation.

“Infantino has been the best person for African football. He has been very kind to Africa,” the outspoken Minister said.

While many have criticised Infantino’s relationship with US President Donald Trump, McKenzie insists it has played little role in decision-making at the summit of the game.

“His relationship with Trump is not our business. Quite frankly, I don’t care about his relationship with Trump. It is how he relates to us as Africans.

“This World Cup is not what people think. America has their rules, and I respect their rules. Did everybody in South Africa get their visa? Yes – so what’s the problem?”

McKenzie is among the high-profile government officials who attended the tournament’s opening match last Thursday in Mexico City, where nine-man South Africa fell to a 2-0 defeat against the host nation.