CAF unanimously backs Infantino amid backlash over FIFA Forward Enterprise

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has unanimously endorsed FIFA’s latest update on the proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), reaffirming its commitment to governance, transparency and the long-term development of football across Africa.

Following a meeting of its Executive Committee (EXCO), CAF backed the “Joint Update” issued by FIFA president Gianni Infantino and secretary general Mattias Grafström, while stressing that African football’s governing body remains focused on elevating the continent’s game to the highest level.

The endorsement comes after FIFA acknowledged shortcomings in the handling of the proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise project and confirmed that the plan has now been withdrawn.

FIFA admits mistakes over Forward Enterprise proposal

In the joint statement, FIFA admitted that mistakes had been made during the consultation process surrounding the FIFA Forward Enterprise initiative.

“We acknowledge mistakes were made in the process of the proposed establishment of the FIFA Forward Enterprise (‘FFE’). It was certainly not the intention for the FIFA Council and FIFA Member Associations to feel excluded from the process and it should have been handled differently,” the statement said.

FIFA also apologised for the handling of the matter and pledged to review its internal procedures to prevent similar issues in the future.

“We sincerely apologise for these errors and commit to them not happening again.”

The world governing body further clarified that the proposal, which would have required approval from FIFA member associations and the FIFA Council, is no longer being considered.

Motsepe reaffirms commitment to transparency

CAF president Patrice Motsepe welcomed FIFA’s response and reiterated the importance of governance and accountability within African football.

“CAF welcomes and endorses the ‘Joint Update’ by FIFA president Gianni Infantino and secretary general Mattias Grafström,” Motsepe said.

“CAF will continue to focus on making African football amongst the best in the world and is reaffirming its commitment to adhering to global governance, transparency and auditing best practices.”

The South African businessman described transparency and due process as essential values that must be upheld by football institutions across the continent.

“For us in Africa, adherence to governance, due process and transparency is crucial and non-negotiable, as this is the practice and conduct we expect from our governments, business and other institutions and organisations. This is also the conduct that is expected from CAF.”

CAF targets growth on and off the pitch

Motsepe said CAF would continue working with FIFA, member associations and other football stakeholders to strengthen the sport across Africa.

He highlighted youth development, investment in infrastructure and support for national teams as key priorities for the organisation.

“CAF will also continue to focus on developing our boys and girls football players, coaches and trainers, the national teams of our 54 member associations and the amateur and professional leagues on the African continent.”

The CAF president also revealed that discussions with sponsors, commercial partners and investors were progressing positively, with the aim of ensuring the organisation remains financially independent while improving football facilities across Africa.

“Good progress is being made in discussions with our current and new sponsors, partners and investors to ensure that CAF continues to be financially self-supporting and independent and that stadiums and other football infrastructure is constructed and upgraded.”

Support for Infantino and praise for WAFCON

CAF’s Executive Committee unanimously reaffirmed its support for FIFA president Gianni Infantino and thanked him, FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafström and the FIFA administration for their continued support of African football and for organising what it described as a successful 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The meeting also praised the standard of the ongoing 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

According to CAF, the tournament has showcased a high level of football and has already emerged as one of the confederation’s most successful competitions.

Meanwhile, preparations continue for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda under the “PAMOJA” banner, as CAF pushes ahead with its broader vision for the future of African football.