African football backs FIFA’s Infantino

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is receiving backing from Africa's 54-member voting bloc, with Morocco playing a key role in his support. The Confederation of African Football (CAF), led by South African billionaire Patrick Motsepe, has unanimously reaffirmed its backing for Infantino, expressing gratitude for his commitment to African football.

Four African FIFA Council members had previously voiced their support for Infantino after he dropped his $20 billion World Cup commercial rights plan. This endorsement bolsters Infantino's position, narrowing the odds against his opponents who are considering a European boycott. Morocco's stance is rooted in a decade-long strategy of leveraging football as a diplomatic tool, including investments in stadiums and hosting CAF tournaments.

Additionally, Morocco could potentially gain the hosting rights for the 2030 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Spain and Portugal, in exchange for continued support. However, Algeria, due to its rivalry with Morocco, could potentially shift its allegiance, presenting an opportunity for Infantino's opponents to gather enough votes to challenge his leadership.

Morocco's football chief, Fouzi Lekjaa, sees political gains in his association with Infantino, given the country's electoral calendar.