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In a historic move, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has confirmed that nine to 10 African countries will take part in the upcoming 2026 World Cup. It will be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Notably, the 54-year-old made the announcement during the 46th Ordinary General Assembly of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This is a significant improvement over past tournaments and is in line with FIFA’s new model. It aims to make global competition more accessible.
During the General Assembly, Infantino addressed the assembled African football leaders and dignitaries, sharing his optimism about the upcoming tournament. “We expect nine or 10 African countries (and regions) to participate in the 2026 World Cup,” he said. This announcement therefore underlines FIFA’s commitment to increasing African representation on the world stage.
Furthermore, this decision marks a notable milestone for African football. Historically, the number of African teams participating in the World Cup has been disproportionately small. In response to persistent calls for greater fairness in the competition, FIFA has increased the number of slots for Africa.
Investing in youth: 2026 World Cup shows growth in African football
Infantino also pointed out that a strong youth system is essential for the long-term growth of African football and emphasized the importance of developing youth talent. To this end, he called on African countries to work together on youth development programmes. He stressed that the continent’s vibrant young talent is essential to the growth of African football. “I encourage everyone to devote their resources to youth soccer, because these talented boys and girls are the stars of tomorrow,” Infantino added. Thus reinforcing his vision for a stronger youth system that would help produce future global stars from Africa.
In addition, FIFA has also revealed that it is considering increasing the number of African teams participating in the Women’s World Cup to six. The organization’s larger goal is to increase the diversity of women’s soccer, and this plan aligns with that. In addition to the expansion news, Infantino noted that Morocco will be one of the host countries for the 2030 World Cup. They become the second African country in history to host this prestigious event.
The announcement follows South Africa’s successful hosting in 2010 and represents an exciting opportunity for the North African country to showcase its football culture on the world stage. Morocco’s role as host includes cooperation with other countries, Xinhua reported. The upcoming World Cup centenary celebrations are part of a larger international effort.
CAF expands support, Ethiopia eyes AFCON 2029
In this regard, Ethiopian President Taye Atsuke Selassie made an impassioned appeal during parliament. He appealed for CAF’s support for Ethiopia’s bid to host the 2029 African Cup of Nations (AFCON). Mr. Selassie emphasized the importance of bringing the prestigious tournament to Ethiopia. It has the potential to be a catalyst for the development of soccer in this region. “The key to developing the sport of football and nurturing young talent lies in collective effort. If this foundational talent is nurtured, African football can flourish and claim its rightful place on the world stage.” “Yes,” Selassie said.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe echoed this sentiment and expressed enthusiasm for Ethiopia’s bid. He called on the Ethiopian government and the football federation to work closely together and submit a convincing proposal to host the tournament. “We are excited that Ethiopia has indicated its intention to stand for AFCON in 2029,” Motsepe said. “Soccer’s success reflects what is happening in Ethiopia and across the continent. While successes have been achieved in some regions, challenges continue in others.”
Photo: Imago
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