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15 African Federations Threaten to Block Infantino 2027

8/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

FIFA general secretary Mattias Grafström was approached by African officials about opposing Gianni Infantino.
Up to 15 African federations say they could abandon Infantino if he seeks re-election in 2027.
Only four of CAF’s 21 members publicly backed Infantino at the 7 August meeting.
CAF president Patrice Motsepe and vice-president Fouzi Lekjaa were among the four supporters.
African opposition could be decisive because any challenger needs 106 of 211 FIFA votes.

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Story summary

FIFA general secretary Mattias Grafström was approached by African officials about opposing Gianni Infantino.
Up to 15 African federations say they could abandon Infantino if he seeks re-election in 2027.
Only four of CAF’s 21 members publicly backed Infantino at the 7 August meeting.
CAF president Patrice Motsepe and vice-president Fouzi Lekjaa were among the four supporters.
African opposition could be decisive because any challenger needs 106 of 211 FIFA votes.