Politics · Singapore Bureau
FIFA chief pledges expanded support for African football development
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has committed to increased resources for African football during remarks to continental association leaders in Cape Verde. The pledge marks one of his first major public statements since a controversial proposal to monetise FIFA tournaments faltered in July.
LSN Singapore ·
Infantino addressed football association presidents gathered at a conference in the island nation on Thursday, reaffirming FIFA's commitment to bolstering the sport across the African continent. The announcement underscores the governing body's continued focus on developing football infrastructure and capacity across member nations.
The FIFA chief's appearance signals a return to public engagement after months of relative silence following the collapse of his ambitious proposal in July to sell equity stakes in FIFA tournaments. The initiative had faced significant opposition from member federations and regional stakeholders concerned about the governance implications.
Details regarding the scope and specific allocation of additional resources were not immediately disclosed. However, the commitment reflects FIFA's stated strategy of directing greater investment toward emerging football markets and developmental programmes across Africa, where the sport commands widespread popularity and growing commercial potential.
The conference in Cape Verde brought together senior officials from African football associations, providing a platform for discussion on continental priorities and FIFA's role in supporting their advancement. Infantino's presence and remarks are expected to reinforce FIFA's engagement with African football governance at a critical juncture for the organisation.