Breaking News: Motsepe rules out third term as CAF President in 2029 despite being eligible

CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe has ruled out seeking a third term in office in 2029, despite being eligible to continue leading the continent’s football governing body.

Motsepe, who took charge of the Confederation of African Football in 2021, confirmed that he does not intend to remain in office beyond his current mandate, bringing an end to speculation over whether he would pursue another term after the 2029 CAF presidential elections.

The South African businessman became CAF president after being elected unopposed in March 2021, succeeding Ahmad Ahmad, and was later re-elected for a second term in 2025.

Under CAF’s current statutes, Motsepe would be eligible to contest for another mandate, which could potentially extend his leadership until 2033. However, the CAF boss has decided against pursuing that possibility.

Motsepe’s decision comes at a time when CAF has been undergoing significant transformation under his leadership, with increased investment in competitions, prize money adjustments, infrastructure development and football development programmes across Africa.

During his tenure, CAF has increased financial rewards for major competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations and Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, while also placing greater emphasis on youth football, coaching education and improving facilities across the continent.

The CAF president has repeatedly spoken about his ambition to make African football globally competitive and has backed the vision of an African nation eventually winning the FIFA World Cup.

Reflecting on Africa’s recent progress at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Motsepe highlighted the historic performance of African teams, with nine out of the 10 representatives advancing from the group stage.

He has maintained that CAF’s long-term objective is to build stronger structures that will allow African teams and clubs to compete consistently with the world’s best.

Motsepe’s decision not to seek a third term is expected to open discussions about the future leadership of CAF and potential candidates who could succeed him when his mandate comes to an end.

The CAF president’s remaining years in office will focus on continuing ongoing reforms and ensuring that the progress achieved during his tenure is sustained beyond his presidency.

If confirmed, Motsepe would leave office in 2029 after serving two terms, becoming one of the few CAF presidents to voluntarily step away while still eligible to continue.