The head of African football has thrown his weight behind Gianni Infantino as the FIFA president prepares to seek another term amid mounting opposition from Europe.

Patrice Motsepe told reporters in Johannesburg on Wednesday that Infantino has been a loyal supporter of African football and deserves credit for expanding the continent’s presence on the world stage.

“I like his deep love for football, deep commitment for football in the world and support for Africa,” Motsepe said.

The CAF president’s comments come as Infantino faces criticism over several recent decisions, including FIFA’s handling of a suspension for United States striker Folarin Balogun at the World Cup, the introduction of hydration breaks, and plans to expand the men’s tournament to 64 teams.

Motsepe pointed to Africa’s record representation at this year’s World Cup as evidence of Infantino’s commitment to the continent. Ten African nations competed at the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, following an increase in the continent’s allocation by four direct places and an additional playoff berth.

“Gianni has played a pivotal role in expanding opportunities for African national teams on the global stage,” he said.

Infantino, who took over from Sepp Blatter in 2016, will stand for re-election in 2027 as he seeks a fourth term leading world football’s governing body.

Africa carries significant influence in FIFA politics. CAF’s 54 member associations form the largest unified voting bloc among the game’s six continental confederations.

South American governing body CONMEBOL became the first continental confederation to publicly back Infantino’s re-election bid in April, with CAF quickly following suit.

However, discontent has been growing among some European football associations. Reports suggest a Europe-backed candidate could emerge to challenge Infantino’s bid for another term.

Javier Tebas, president of the Spanish football league, said earlier this week that Infantino’s time was “over”. Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Tebas criticised what he called a “fundamentally flawed” system that has allowed Infantino to lead FIFA for a decade.

“They are destroying the football industry, which generates tens of thousands of jobs, for an event that lasts 40 days and involves only a minority of players,” Tebas said.

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