Pakistan, Aug. 5 -- African football leaders have backed FIFA President Gianni Infantino as he seeks support ahead of next year's presidential election. The backing comes amid criticism over FIFA's leadership and commercial plans.

Five influential African football officials issued statements supporting Infantino after FIFA abandoned a proposal involving future World Cup revenue rights. The plan aimed to raise $4.2 billion through a new commercial entity.

Read more: English FA withdraws support for Infantino's FIFA re-election

The proposal faced opposition from several football confederations, including those from Europe, Asia, and North America. However, the Confederation of African Football has not taken a wider position on Infantino'...