CAF President
By Sello Masilo
Dr. Patrice Motsepe has been re-elected unopposed as the President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) during the 14th Extraordinary General Assembly held on 12 March 2025 in Cairo, Egypt. This re-election extends his leadership for another four-year term, guiding CAF until 2029.
A Continuation of Transformative Leadership
Dr. Motsepe, a South African billionaire and mining magnate, first assumed the CAF presidency in March 2021, becoming the first English-speaking president of the continental football body. His initial election marked a turning point for CAF, as he embarked on a mission to reform the organization’s governance and financial structures. 
Under his leadership, CAF has seen several significant advancements:
• Financial Reforms: Motsepe’s tenure has been characterized by efforts to stabilize CAF’s finances. Notably, he increased the prize money for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) by over 40%, raising it to $7 million. Additionally, the prize money for both the men’s and women’s CAF Champions Leagues saw substantial hikes, aiming to incentivize and elevate the competitive standards of African clubs.
• African Super League: One of the landmark projects under Motsepe’s administration was the establishment of the African Super League (ASL). Initially proposed with an operating budget of $100 million and featuring 24 teams, the inaugural edition in 2023 was streamlined to include eight teams. Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa clinched the first-ever ASL title, marking a new era in African club football.
Challenges and Criticisms
While Motsepe’s tenure has been lauded for its progressive initiatives, it has not been without challenges. The reduction in the number of teams for the inaugural ASL from the proposed 24 to eight drew criticism from some quarters, citing concerns over representation and competitiveness. Additionally, the financial sustainability of such ambitious projects has been a topic of debate among football analysts and stakeholders.
Looking Ahead: The Next Four Years
As Dr. Motsepe embarks on his second term, the African football community holds high expectations for continued reforms and developments. Key areas of focus include:
• Grassroots Development: Investing in youth academies and local leagues to nurture talent from a young age, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled players for both club and national teams.
• Women’s Football: Enhancing support for women’s football across the continent, including increased funding, infrastructure development, and competitive opportunities, to promote gender equality in the sport.
• Infrastructure Enhancement: Collaborating with member associations to improve football infrastructure, such as stadiums and training facilities, to meet international standards and provide better experiences for players and fans alike.
• Financial Transparency: Continuing efforts to ensure financial transparency and accountability within CAF and its affiliated organizations, thereby building trust among stakeholders and attracting potential investors.
Global Reactions
The re-election of Dr. Motsepe has garnered positive reactions from global football entities. FIFA President Gianni Infantino extended his congratulations, expressing optimism about the future of African football under Motsepe’s continued leadership. Various national football associations across Africa have also voiced their support, highlighting the progress made in the past four years and their anticipation for further advancements.
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