The remains of former Confederation of African Football (CAF) president Issa Hayatou arrived in Cameroon, marking the beginning of a solemn tribute to a man who played a pivotal role in African and global football.
A special reception and prayer service was organized at the Yaoundé Nsimalen International Airport, where a multitude of mourners gathered to pay their respects.
Among the attendees were significant figures in the football world, including Hayatou’s successor, Ahmad Ahmad, and his long-time friend, Constant Omari.
Also present was Samuel Eto’o, the current president of the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT), who has often expressed admiration for Hayatou’s contributions to the sport.
Hayatou, who led CAF for nearly three decades, is remembered for his dedication to advancing African football on the global stage.
His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy lives on in the hearts of many.
The final farewell will take place tomorrow in Garoua, his hometown, where he will be laid to rest.
The ceremony is expected to be a poignant moment, honouring a man who shaped the future of football in Africa and beyond.
The long-time leader of African soccer who was made interim president of FIFA during its corruption crisis in 2015, died on Thursday, August 8, 2024, in Paris.
