Africa weighs backing FIFA's $4.2bn investment plan as Europe threatens boycott
As UEFA threatens to boycott World Cups over plans to sell stakes to private investors, cash-strapped African federations face a tempting financial offer that could split global football governance.
Gianni Infantino's proposal to sell stakes in FIFA competitions to private investors has triggered a deepening rift in global football. UEFA has voted to boycott FIFA tournaments if the plan proceeds, while the Confederation of African Football has remained largely silent—potentially positioning itself as FIFA's main supporter.
The plan would create a commercial subsidiary called FIFA Forward Enterprise, which the organization estimates could raise $4.2bn. FIFA says the money would be reinvested into football globally. African federations could receive $40m each, with an initial $20m potentially arriving by January 1 if the proposal is approved by September 19.
For many of CAF's 54 member associations, the financial offer is difficult to refuse. "Football is a very expensive venture, especially on the African continent where resources are not easy to come by," said Rogers Byamukama of Uganda's football federation. "What is wrong with making more money and sharing that money with those that need it most?"
CAF President Patrice Motsepe has developed a close relationship with Infantino since taking office in 2021. He praised FIFA's president for his "excellent work" and called him "a good friend." Motsepe emphasized Infantino's loyalty to Africa, noting that the expansion of the World Cup to 48 teams gave the continent nine guaranteed spots, up from five.
"He is loyal to Africa," Motsepe said. "When people have been loyal to you, you never stab them in the back."
The proposal requires a straight majority of 106 votes from FIFA's 211 member associations. UEFA controls 55 votes, the Asian Football Confederation 46, and Concacaf 35. If all three confederations oppose the plan, that represents 136 votes against it—enough to block approval even if Africa's 54 federations support it.
But not everyone in Africa backs the proposal. Isha Johansen, a former Sierra Leone FA president and CAF executive committee member, warned that the deal "does not sit well" and questioned the long-term cost. "Should football be commercialised in the manner in which it potentially could be if this proposal were to go through?" she asked.
CAF's executive committee will meet next week to assess the proposal. The decision will test whether financial necessity outweighs concerns about football's governance and whether Africa will align with Europe's opposition or stand with FIFA.
