South African billionaire businessman and CAF president since 2021
FIFA’s presidency is facing a concerted push to unseat Gianni Infantino. European federations are withdrawing support amid governance concerns, while UEFA and others are seeking a credible challenger ahead of the November deadline to enter the race and the March 18 election in Rabat. Infantino remains publicly committed to leading FIFA through reforms.
Airspace has reopened between Mali and Algeria and ambassadors are to resume duties after a year-long diplomatic rift triggered by a drone incident. Mali says its airspace is open to all civilian and military flights; Algeria confirms the move as ties thaw in a volatile Sahel.
The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations is underway in Morocco with 16 teams, 34 matches, and a new qualification tie to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Morocco hosts; Nigeria defends the title as several debutants join the field. Kick-off times start at 17:00 GMT across venues, with the final on Aug. 16.
FIFA has scrapped its plan to sell a minority stake in World Cup assets after broad, global backlash. UEFA and other confederations had threatened boycotts and demand reforms. The leadership faces renewed scrutiny as talks to rebuild trust begin.
Artan has become the first non-European official to referee the UEFA Super Cup, guiding Paris Saint‑Germain to a 2-1 victory over Aston Villa in Salzburg. His appointment follows UEFA’s CAF cooperation and comes after a US entry denial that sparked international scrutiny. The match confirms Artan’s place among Africa’s top referees and marks a historic moment for Somali football.
European football bodies, joined by Concacaf and the AFC, are pushing for an independent review of FIFA’s governance amid Infantino’s contested bid and a plan to sell World Cup stakes. A coalition is drafting a new framework to guide world football’s future, with European nations weighing boycott options and potential policy shifts.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino is facing intensified scrutiny as UEFA, CONCACAF and AFC demand accountability over a private-investment plan for World Cup assets. CAF backs Infantino, while Ireland withdraws support amid governance concerns. Motsepe says decisions should come from elections, not behind closed doors.
Cameroon has defeated Malawi in a penalty shootout after a 0-0 draw to win the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, securing the title and a first continental trophy for Cameroon as both sides seal spots at the 2027 World Cup.
Motsepe has defended Africa’s stance on AFCON, saying Africa’s interests are protected as CAF weighs returning to a two-year cycle. The plan has broad African support but faces leadership tensions while Infantino’s influence looms. Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda are set to host the next edition.