FIFA President Gianni Infantino addressed the CAF Congress, which backed his plan for biennial FIFA World Cups ©CAF

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed its support for biennial FIFA World Cups at the organisation’s Extraordinary General Assembly, as FIFA President Gianni Infantino suggested opponents to the proposal are afraid of losing their position at the top of the sport.

The CAF’s support of the biennial FIFA World Cup proposal was expected, after the body’s President Patrice Motsepe claimed in September that African football could be the "biggest beneficiary” of the proposed change.

A resolution was passed by CAF during the General Assembly today, following a presentation from FIFA's chief of global development and former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger.

"CAF welcomes the FIFA Congress decision to conduct a feasibility study on hosting men’s and women’s FIFA World Cups every two years," the CAF resolution read.

"If the FIFA study concludes it is feasible, CAF will fully support hosting the men’s and women’s FIFA World Cup every two years."

Wenger had earlier told the CAF General Assembly that he believed holding biennial men’s and women’s FIFA World Cups was feasible, with the Frenchman also stressing the need for annual youth tournaments, which he claimed would significantly boost African football.

FIFA’s feasibility study into shifting from a traditional four-year World Cup cycle to a biennial one has attracted criticism from European football’s governing body UEFA and the South American Football Confederation.

A series of top European leagues have strongly signalled their opposition to the proposals.

Infantino, insisting the process is remains a consultation at this stage, suggested opponents were seeking to maintain their status at the top of the game.

FIFA's chief of global development Arsene Wenger, left, told the General Assembly he believes biennial FIFA World Cups are feasible ©CAF
FIFA's chief of global development Arsene Wenger, left, told the General Assembly he believes biennial FIFA World Cups are feasible ©CAF

"It is our responsibility to keep the dream open and give possibilities to everyone," Infantino said.

"Obviously when you debate and consult you find that some are in favour and others are against, this is democracy, this is healthy.

"It is understandable that those who are against are those at the top, it happens in every sector of life when there are reforms and changes, those who are at the top don't want anything to change because they are at the top.

"And they are afraid maybe that if something changes, their leadership position is at risk.

"We understand that and we complement and applaud them for having been so successful in reaching the top.

"This is fantastic, and they are an example for everyone.

"But at the same time, we cannot close the door, we need to keep the door open, we need to give hope and opportunities for the entire world."

Infantino highlighted that 10 African teams await playoffs to qualify for the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup with only half advancing and the remainder left waiting for the 2026 tournament.

He warned there needed to be more opportunities for African football to shine on the world stage, both in men’s and women’s football.

The CAF General Assembly also approved continued studies into launching a Pan-African Super League for the continents top club teams.

The proposed competition is expected to feature 20 of the continent’s elite club teams, which CAF believes will help to maximise revenues for participants.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino offered his full support for a Pan-African Super League ©CAF
FIFA President Gianni Infantino offered his full support for a Pan-African Super League ©CAF

A presentation at the Congress claimed the league could have "important advantages", including delivering a high-level competition and providing greater revenues for member associations.

Infantino had confirmed CAF could count on FIFA’s "full support" for the project, claiming it was necessary to provide the "right stage for African clubs".

CAF President Motsepe also told the General Assembly that Cameroon was 95 per cent ready for the Africa Cup of Nations in a show of faith in organisers of the upcoming tournament.

CAF had warned last month there were areas that need "urgent attention" before the January kick-off.

CAF reportedly expressed concerns over customs, marketing and operations for the tournament, as well as ongoing stadium work.

The tournament is scheduled to start on January 9 and conclude on February 6.