FIFA is making big changes for the 2026 World Cup by increasing the number of spots for African countries. As the qualifier will start soon, African nations are preparing for the big tournament which will be co-hosted by the USA, Mexico and Canada. FIFA president Gianni Infantino promised to provide Africa a bigger role in competition.
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At the 14th CAF Extraordinary General Assembly in Cairo, Gianni Infantino said that FIFA wants to increase Africa’s presence in world football.
“We are making sure that Africans can have a bigger say on the world stage,” he stated.
Africa Will Have More Teams in the 2026 World Cup
Infantino announced that Africa’s participation in the 2026 World Cup could increase from five to ten teams of the region, which will provide more African countries the chance to compete and show their talent on the 2026 FIFA World Cup stage.
He also highlighted increased opportunities for African players in women’s and youth football. “For the Women’s World Cup, we moved from 3 to 4 or potentially 6 representatives from Africa, and the same goes, of course, for the youth competitions,” he said.
Dr. Patrice Motsepe was re-elected as the CAF President for a second term extending his leadership until 2029. This will help Africa football grow even more. His leadership will drive Africa more progress and ensure Africa’s influence in global football continues to shine in football.
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