Infantino backs Mahazou Baba Cisse as new Mali FA Chief meets FIFA leadership in Vancouver

Newly elected Mali Football Federation (FEMAFOOT) president Mahazou Baba Cisse has held high-level talks with Gianni Infantino during the ongoing FIFA Congress 2026 in Vancouver.

The meeting, which took place on Thursday, 28 April, marked Cisse’s first major international engagement since assuming office earlier this month, and signals a renewed push to strengthen Malian football at both administrative and technical levels.

Infantino used the opportunity to congratulate the new Femafoot boss on his election and pledged FIFA’s full backing as Mali looks to reposition itself as a competitive force on the African and global stage.

The FIFA president emphasised the importance of stability, governance, and development in unlocking the country’s vast football potential.

Cisse, who was elected on 16 April 2026 at an extraordinary general assembly in Bamako, expressed appreciation for the support and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to reforms aimed at improving infrastructure, youth development, and national team competitiveness.

Also present at the meeting were FIFA Secretary General Mathias Grafstrom, Deputy Chief Member Associations (Africa) Gelson Fernandes, and former France international Youri Djorkaeff, who now serves as an advisor to the FIFA president.

Cisse’s presence at the Congress underscores Mali’s intent to re-engage strongly within global football circles as the West African nation seeks to harness its rich talent pool and achieve sustained success.