Fierce Battle Looms: 10 African Candidates Compete for Five FIFA Council Seats

The upcoming FIFA Council elections on March 12, 2025, in Cairo, Egypt, are set to be one of the most competitive in recent years. With 10 African candidates vying for just five seats, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Those elected will hold significant influence over global football policies while shaping the future of the sport across the continent.

Each contender brings unique strengths, deep-rooted networks, and political backing, making this race as much about strategy as it is about popularity.

Top Contenders in the FIFA Council Race

Fouzi Lekjaa (Morocco) – The Institutional Favorite

Morocco’s Fouzi Lekjaa stands out as the candidate with the most institutional support. As the president of the Moroccan Football Federation, his influence extends beyond the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and into FIFA’s decision-making circles.

Morocco’s rising global football stature, including its successful bid to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal, strengthens Lekjaa’s candidacy. Additionally, the nation’s long-term deal to host the U-17 FIFA World Cup for five consecutive editions further highlights his negotiation power at the international level. With the backing of both CAF and FIFA leadership, he is widely expected to secure a seat.

Amaju Pinnick (Nigeria) – The Master Strategist

Former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) president Amaju Pinnick is another strong contender, known for his diplomatic skills and vast network of football executives. He began his campaign well in advance, securing support from several African FA presidents.

Pinnick’s close ties with CAF President Patrice Motsepe and FIFA President Gianni Infantino work in his favor, though he downplays their influence. Despite being from an Anglophone country, he has forged strong relationships with Francophone and Arab football leaders, including Senegal’s Augustin Senghor and Niger’s Djibrilla Hima Hamidou. His business background in oil, gas, and infrastructure also strengthens his political and financial influence, making him one of the most formidable candidates in the race.

Augustin Senghor (Senegal) – The Accomplished Leader

As the president of the Senegalese Football Federation, Augustin Senghor has overseen a golden era for Senegalese football. Under his leadership, Senegal has won major tournaments, including the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the 2022 African Nations Championship (CHAN), and both the U-17 and U-20 AFCON titles.

Highly respected for his integrity and administrative expertise, Senghor is a favorite among voters. However, some believe his current role as CAF’s First Vice President already gives him substantial power, which could work against him in the elections. Regardless of the outcome, his influence in African football remains undeniable.

Other Notable Candidates in the Race

Djibrilla Hima Hamidou (Niger) – The Military Strongman

Nicknamed “Pele”, Djibrilla Hima Hamidou is a powerful figure in Francophone football circles. His military background has shaped his reputation for strong, disciplined leadership, making him a respected figure among his supporters. However, his limited influence outside Francophone nations poses a challenge, as he struggles to gain support in English-speaking regions.

Ahmed Yahya (Mauritania) – The Silent Contender

A rising star in African football, Ahmed Yahya has earned FIFA’s trust through his pioneering work in Mauritanian football development. His ability to improve football infrastructure has earned him admiration from both CAF and FIFA officials.

Despite enjoying support from Francophone and Arab nations, his low-key campaign strategy could work against him. His absence from the recent WAFU Zone A General Assembly also raised concerns about his commitment to the race.

Souleiman Hassan Waberi (Djibouti) – The Political Strategist

Djibouti’s Souleiman Hassan Waberi, a CAF Vice President, has built a strong reputation as a football administrator and political strategist. He was the first African leader to publicly back Gianni Infantino’s FIFA presidency and has served on FIFA’s influential committees for eight years.

Waberi’s deep ties with FIFA and CAF leadership make him a credible candidate. However, his ability to convert those connections into actual votes remains uncertain.

Mathurin de Chacus (Benin) – The Respected but Passive Candidate

Highly respected among African football leaders, Mathurin de Chacus has taken a reserved approach to his campaign. Despite his widespread goodwill, his lack of aggressive campaigning may cost him a seat.

Andrew Kamanga (Zambia) – The Regional Favorite Facing Local Challenges

Supported by CECAFA and COSAFA, two influential African football blocs, Andrew Kamanga has a solid backing. However, political issues in Zambia, including conflicts with the Zambian government, could undermine his chances. Concerns over political interference in his football administration may also deter some voters.

Hani Abou Rida (Egypt) – The Experienced Veteran

Egypt’s Hani Abou Rida brings decades of experience in CAF and FIFA governance. Having played a key role in shaping African football policy, he remains one of the continent’s most influential figures.

However, his long tenure may work against him, as some voters may favor fresh faces over established names.

Idriss Diallo (Ivory Coast) – The Rising Star

Following Ivory Coast’s successful AFCON 2023 campaign, Idriss Diallo has gained momentum. His strong government backing and Francophone support make him a formidable competitor.

However, as a first-time FIFA Council candidate, he faces stiff competition from more seasoned administrators who have long-standing ties with CAF and FIFA leadership.

A Defining Moment for African Football

With only five seats available, the FIFA Council elections 2025 will be a fierce contest filled with strategic alliances, political maneuvering, and football diplomacy. The outcome will not only shape Africa’s influence in FIFA but also impact the future of football governance on the continent.

The question remains: Who will emerge victorious and secure a seat at FIFA’s top decision-making table?