Patrice Motsepe confirms final term as CAF president

Confederation of African Football (CAF) president Dr Patrice Motsepe has reaffirmed that his current term in office will be his last, saying his priority is to build a strong foundation for the future of African football.

Motsepe made the declaration during a press conference at the CAF Strategy Conference in Cape Verde, where football administrators and other stakeholders discussed the continent’s long-term development and competitiveness on the global stage.

The South African businessman was first elected CAF president on 12 March 2021 after the other four candidates withdrew from the race. He was re-elected for a second term on 12 March 2025 at CAF’s 14th Extraordinary General Assembly.

Motsepe said establishing a solid foundation for African football was essential to ensuring that progress could continue beyond his leadership.

His comments come as CAF reviews its policies and development priorities, with renewed attention on improving the quality of competitions, strengthening member associations and creating better conditions for African nations to compete at major international tournaments.

The CAF president has repeatedly expressed his ambition to see an African country win the FIFA World Cup, stressing the need for the continent to learn from past shortcomings and make the necessary changes to improve its chances of success.

With attention already turning towards the 2030 World Cup, African football leaders have been encouraged to assess previous performances, review existing strategies and identify areas requiring urgent improvement.

Motsepe’s latest remarks underline the importance of building sustainable institutions and effective development structures that can serve African football long after his presidency ends.

Since taking office, he has emphasised the need to support all CAF member associations and strengthen football development across the continent. His final term will therefore be closely watched as the governing body works to translate its ambitions into lasting improvements.

The CAF Strategy Conference in Cape Verde provides an opportunity for stakeholders to examine key challenges facing the game and discuss policies that could shape its future.

Motsepe’s confirmation that he will not seek another term also places the question of succession and leadership transition on the horizon, although attention remains focused on the reforms and decisions that will emerge from the ongoing strategic discussions.

As his presidency enters its final phase, the challenge will be to ensure that the foundations established during his tenure deliver sustainable benefits for African football.