Central African Republic making “giant strides” in football – Gianni Infantino

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has commended the rapid development of football in the Central African Republic, praising the leadership of the national federation and reaffirming FIFA’s commitment to supporting the country’s growth agenda.

In an official statement, Infantino highlighted significant strides made by the (FCF) in infrastructure, youth development and women’s football.

“The Central African Republic Football Association continues to make giant strides especially in the areas of infrastructure, youth development and women’s football.

“I witnessed first-hand during my visit to the country in February 2021, and the collaboration with FCF and other stakeholders has been positive towards the growth of the game.”

Landmark infrastructure projects

Infantino singled out two major FIFA-funded projects currently underway under the leadership of FCF President .

“Under the leadership of FCF President, Celestin Yanindji, construction for a Technical Centre dedicated to Women’s Football, a pioneer project, in Liton, north of the capital Bangui, is on course as well as a 40,000-capacity stadium in Landja Mboko, both fully funded by FIFA.”

The women’s technical centre is expected to become a cornerstone for female football development in the country, while the new 40,000-seat stadium in Landja Mboko will significantly boost the nation’s capacity to host major competitions.

Youth breakthrough on continental stage

The FIFA President also credited the Football for Schools programme for contributing to youth development success, including a historic qualification.

“Aided by the Football for Schools programme, the Central African U-20 Men’s team qualified for the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, which was held in Mauritania, for the first time in 2021.”

The milestone marked a significant achievement for the country’s youth football structure and underscored the impact of grassroots initiatives supported by FIFA.

Government collaboration praised

Infantino reiterated FIFA’s long-term commitment to the country, referencing discussions held with Central African Republic President .

“FIFA remains fully committed to the development of football, as I highlighted during my meeting with the President of Central African Republic, His Excellency Faustin-Archange Touadéra, during the United Nations General Assembly in New York, last September.”

He further applauded the successful staging of a recent training workshop organised under the FIFA Football for Schools initiative.

“Few days ago, FIFA organised a training workshop for teachers as part of the FIFA Football for School initiative, and I commend the FCF, Ministry of National Education, representing the government of Central African Republic for ensuring the event was a great success.”

Infantino’s remarks underscore FIFA’s continued investment in infrastructure, education and women’s football development across Africa, with the Central African Republic emerging as one of the beneficiaries of the global governing body’s forward-looking programmes.