CAF boss hails Morocco’s AFCON legacy, backs East Africa for 2027 tournament success

CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe has praised Morocco for setting a new benchmark in African football, saying the North African nation has significantly elevated the standards of the Africa Cup of Nations.

Speaking on the country’s growing influence on the continental game while addressing the media following an official visit to North Africa on Thursday, Motsepe commended Morocco’s recent contributions and urged other host nations to match and surpass those levels in future tournaments.

“Morocco has raised the AFCON standards very, very high. The next tournament must go even higher and we must maintain that level going forward,” he said.

Turning his attention to the next edition of the tournament, Motsepe expressed strong confidence in East Africa’s readiness to deliver a successful competition when Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda co-host the 2027 AFCON.

He revealed that CAF’s leadership had engaged directly with the region as part of preparations and development efforts aimed at strengthening football infrastructure and organisation.

“That’s why I took the CAF Executive Committee to Tanzania to show my belief in the region. We will work together to develop football in East Africa and across the continent.”

Motsepe also struck an optimistic tone about the future of the tournament, insisting that the joint East African bid will meet expectations.

“I have no doubt in my mind that we will succeed in delivering a successful 2027 AFCON in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.”

His remarks come as CAF continues to push for higher hosting standards and broader continental development ahead of its flagship tournament.