FIFA President Giovanni Vincenzo Infantino has issued a rallying cry to African nations, urging them to invest heavily in their young footballers and unleash the continent's immense potential on the global stage.
Speaking at the 46th Ordinary General Assembly of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in Addis Ababa, Infantino highlighted the significant strides African football has made, becoming increasingly competitive and dynamic. He emphasized the importance of nurturing talent across the continent, not just in select regions, and called for a renewed focus on youth development.
"I encourage all of you to continue investing in youth football," Infantino stated. "These young players, these girls and boys who compete in youth tournaments like the Under-17 World Cup, will be the stars of tomorrow. They will ensure that, sooner rather than later, an African nation will lift the World Cup trophy." According to ENA, Infantino also expressed excitement about Morocco's upcoming hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which would make it the second African nation to host the prestigious tournament after South Africa in 2010.
The President underscored the organization's dedication to African football by outlining significant investments in five key areas. These investments have resulted in a noticeable rise in the competitiveness of African teams in tournaments like the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and World Cup qualifiers. FIFA has increased its annual investment in football development from $250,000 to $2 million, fostering a more robust talent pool.
This commitment to talent development extends to refereeing programs, yielding positive results both within Africa and on the global stage. The expansion of the 2026 World Cup will see nine or ten African nations participate for the first time, doubling the continent's representation in the tournament. This increased participation is a testament to the growth and development of African football, demonstrating FIFA's commitment to supporting the continent's footballing future.
Infantino's message is clear. Africa has the talent and potential to become a dominant force in world football. By investing in its youth and fostering a strong infrastructure, the continent can unlock its full potential and achieve unprecedented success on the global stage.