Malawi FA chief backs Infantino, credits FIFA investment for World Cup breakthrough

Malawi's president of football, Fleetwood Haiya, has expressed his continued support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Haiya credits Infantino's investment in African football during his tenure as a key factor in Malawi's qualification for the 2027 Women's World Cup. Malawi made history by reaching the semi-finals of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, leading to their berth in the World Cup.

Haiya believes that Infantino's focus on developing football in undervalued associations, particularly in Africa, has been instrumental in Malawi's success. Although Haiya supports Infantino, he acknowledges the need for alternatives to the controversial $4.2 billion proposal Infantino made to sell a stake in the World Cup and other tournaments' commercial rights.

Haiya remains confident that a candidate who truly understands and supports the needs of poorer member associations will emerge as a strong challenger to Infantino in the upcoming FIFA elections.