Gianni Infantino faces scrutiny ahead of upcoming elections, with French coach Claude Le Roy launching a sharp critique against the governing body’s leadership and financial priorities. Speaking at a press conference in Brazzaville on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, during his return to manage the Congo national team, Le Roy accused Infantino of prioritizing personal wealth and political alliances over the development of global football. He specifically pointed to detrimental policy shifts affecting African competitions.
A Scapin of Modern Football
The 78-year-old manager, whose coaching resume includes spells with Cameroon, Senegal, DR Congo, Ghana, Togo, and now the Congo, labeled the FIFA president a “Scapin of modern football.” He claimed financial gain supersedes athletic integrity under his watch.
“And when he arrives in a country, it’s not the federation president he wants to see, it’s the head of state. That’s all that interests him. These are people who damage football, and I will fight against these people always, until my last breath.”
The Discontinuation of the CHAN
Le Roy’s criticisms centered heavily on how FIFA’s structural decisions impact the African continent.
The veteran coach highlighted the shifting frequency of the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) and the announced discontinuation of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) as damaging blows to regional development.
Describing the CHAN as an extraordinary research laboratory for domestic talent, Le Roy argued that its removal stems entirely from a lack of high financial return. According to the coverage, he warned that such policy adjustments stifle grassroots infrastructure, stadium construction, and overall living conditions linked to sports development across participating nations.
Divided Continental Allegiances
The outspoken remarks highlight a broader debate surrounding Gianni Infantino’s leadership as he prepares for the next presidential election cycle scheduled for March 2027.
Critics like Le Roy argue that current commercial strategies alienate traditional football structures. They point to recent controversies, such as proposals to open World Cups to foreign investors.
Even so, Infantino retains influential allies on the continent. Prominent figures, including former Cameroon international Samuel Eto’o, have previously voiced support for Infantino’s contributions and reforms within African associations.
However, with several national federations reportedly reconsidering their allegiances amid shifting political dynamics and ongoing governance disputes, the battle for continental backing remains a critical storyline for FIFA’s leadership future.
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