FIFA president Gianni Infantino to visit Algeria, says Mustapha Berraf

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is set to visit Algeria in the coming months, according to Mustapha Berraf, as discussions intensify ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Speaking at a press conference in Algiers, Berraf — president of the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) and a member of the International Olympic Committee — confirmed that the visit follows extensive talks with Infantino in Milan.

He said the meeting reflects a shared desire to address several key issues concerning Algerian and African football.

Among the matters raised were concerns expressed by the Algerian Football Federation, alongside broader topics affecting the continent, including governance and refereeing.

These subjects have frequently been highlighted in recent years within African football circles.

A central feature of the visit is an expected audience between Infantino and Algeria’s President, Abdelmadjid Tebboune.

The meeting is anticipated to focus on challenges facing domestic football as well as long-term plans for infrastructure development across the country.

One of the projects under discussion involves FIFA’s support for stadium construction initiatives in Africa. According to Berraf, this programme could include the building of a stadium in Tazrouk, located in Algeria’s Tamanrasset province.

The proposal forms part of a wider effort aimed at strengthening football infrastructure across the continent.

Berraf also underlined what he described as Algeria’s growing sporting momentum, noting that several international figures are expected to attend upcoming events in the country.

He suggested that such visits highlight Algeria’s ambition to reinforce its standing within African sport.

Infantino’s forthcoming trip signals a period of engagement between FIFA and Algerian authorities at a time when preparations for the 2026 World Cup are gathering pace globally.

The discussions are expected to address both immediate concerns and longer-term development strategies, placing Algeria at the centre of continental football dialogue in the months ahead.