Gianni Infantino, President of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA), expressed his «deep sorrow» upon learning of the passing of Ahmed Faras, Moroccan football icon and winner of the 1975 African Ballon d'Or. In a post on his official Instagram account, Infantino paid tribute to the historic top scorer of the Moroccan national team and captain of the squad that won the 1976 Africa Cup of Nations. «I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Moroccan player Ahmed Faras», he wrote. On behalf of FIFA and the entire footballing community, «I would like to express my sincere condolences to his family and friends, to the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, and to everyone at CAF. Rest in peace». Patrice Motsepe, President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), also expressed his condolences, describing Faras as «an exceptional leader both on and off the field». In a statement published on CAF's official website, Motsepe recalled that Faras was one of Africa's brightest football stars, named the continent's best player in 1975 and a central figure in Morocco's historic Africa Cup of Nations victory in 1976. «Ahmed Faras was an outstanding leader whose contributions to football in Morocco and across Africa helped pave the way for the global success we now see from Moroccan and African players», Motsepe said. He offered his heartfelt sympathies and support to «the family of the deceased, his former teammates, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, its president Fouzi Lekjaa, and the Moroccan people. Ahmed Faras will forever live in our hearts and memories. May God bless him and grant him eternal peace». Ahmed Faras passed away on Wednesday in Mohammedia at the age of 78, following a long illness.
