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FIFA President Gianni Infantino delivered a heartfelt tribute to African football and sports journalism during the AIPS Africa ceremony held in Rabat, Morocco. He recognized the remarkable performances of teams, particularly Morocco, in the recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and praised the tournament's growing global stature. Infantino highlighted a historic milestone for African representation in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, where nine or ten African teams are set to compete for the first time. He acknowledged the vital role of African journalists in promoting the sport and fostering connections between fans and athletes. Additionally, Infantino reaffirmed FIFA's commitment to youth development, referencing initiatives like the Young Reporters Programme, which aims to nurture the next generation of sports journalists.