Patrice Motsepe’s path to becoming the first African president of FIFA has received a major boost after South Africa’s Sports Minister publicly endorsed the CAF president as the continent’s preferred future candidate. Although Gianni Infantino is widely expected to secure another term until 2031, the endorsement signals Africa’s growing ambition to shape the future leadership of world football.

Why Patrice Motsepe Is Being Backed

South African Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie said Africa should support Infantino’s expected third term before rallying behind Motsepe when the FIFA presidency next becomes vacant. “As soon as the term is finished, we will all root for Patrice Motsepe to take over FIFA,” McKenzie said.

Since becoming CAF president in 2021, Motsepe has overseen reforms aimed at improving governance, increasing commercial investment and restoring confidence in African football after years of corruption scandals. McKenzie credited him with bringing greater professionalism to the continental game while helping strengthen African football’s global standing.

The continent’s recent performances have reinforced that perception. African teams enjoyed their strongest-ever showing at the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup, with nine of the 10 qualified nations advancing beyond the group stage.

Africa’s Influence Could Shape FIFA’s Future

Any future FIFA presidential race will depend heavily on voting alliances. CAF represents 54 of FIFA’s 211 member associations, giving Africa one of the governing body’s largest voting blocs. Because every member association receives one vote, continental support could prove decisive in any election.

Meanwhile, Infantino is expected to retain strong backing from Africa, Asia and South America, making another successful campaign highly likely before attention turns to his eventual successor.

A Historic Opportunity Still Years Away

Motsepe has not publicly indicated any intention to run for FIFA president, and discussions about his candidacy remain speculative. For now, his focus remains on leading CAF and continuing reforms across African football.

However, McKenzie’s endorsement highlights a broader ambition. If Motsepe eventually contests the presidency and wins, he would become the first African to lead FIFA, marking a historic milestone for both the continent and world football governance.