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Brazil World Cup-winning captain Cafu backs Infantino, explains his support
Published : Wednesday, 26 August, 2026 at 5:48 PM
Observer Online Report
Collected Photo
Brazil World Cup-winning captain Cafu has voiced his support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino, even as the FIFA chief faces growing criticism from former players and football administrators around the world.
Infantino has come under increasing pressure in recent weeks. Several former players criticized his leadership in a joint statement two days ago, while powerful confederations, including UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and CONCACAF, have reportedly begun opposing him publicly. There has also been growing speculation about a possible no-confidence motion against the FIFA president.
The controversy intensified after Infantino proposed plans to sell private investors partnerships in the organization of major FIFA tournaments, including the World Cup. Although he eventually abandoned the plan following widespread criticism, pressure on the Swiss administrator has continued.
Former France internationals Emmanuel Petit, Vincent Lizarazu and Robert Pirès, former United States women's World Cup winner Briana Scurry, and England international Lucy Bronze were among those who recently signed a joint statement criticizing Infantino and calling for change in FIFA leadership.
However, Cafu does not share their assessment.
In a video message posted on Instagram, the former Brazil right-back praised FIFA and Infantino for what he described as significant progress in football administration over the past decade.
According to Cafu, one of the most important changes has been the greater involvement of current and former footballers in FIFA's decision-making process.
“For 10 years, we have seen FIFA and President Infantino working to increase representation in football's governing body. This had never happened before,” Cafu said.
He highlighted the opportunities given to former players to participate in committees, projects and working groups, saying they now have a platform to express their views and take part in important decision-making processes.
Cafu stressed that the involvement of former footballers goes beyond ceremonial ambassadorial roles. Their experience from the pitch, he said, is now directly contributing to the development of international football policies.
“Our opinions are heard. Many measures taken in the interests of the game have been developed based on our thoughts, ideas, plans and participation,” Cafu said.
The two-time World Cup winner also emphasized the broader social impact of football.
“We know how football can change lives, make society better and expand opportunities for people around the world,” he said.
Cafu added that former players remain committed to preserving that positive impact and ensuring that the benefits of football reach every corner of the world.
“We are ready to support the enormous progress our game has made over the past decade so that the benefits of football can reach every part of the world,” he said.
Cafu's public backing comes at a crucial time for Infantino, who has faced mounting criticism from former players and football authorities. Whether the support of one of Brazil's most celebrated former captains will help ease the pressure on the FIFA president remains to be seen.
-HIS
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Editor : Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury
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Published by the Editor on behalf of the Observer Ltd. from Globe Printers, 24/A, New Eskaton Road, Ramna, Dhaka.
Editorial, News and Commercial Offices : Aziz Bhaban (2nd floor), 93, Motijheel C/A, Dhaka-1000.
Phone: PABX- 41053001-06; Advertisement: 41053012; 01793317829, 01550707291, E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Online: email: [email protected] 41053014; 01550707297 Advertisement: 01550707296
