Issa Hayatou, the long-standing head of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), faced both achievements and controversies during his tenure. Some notable aspects include:
Achievements:
- Expansion of World Cup Slots: Under Hayatou’s leadership, Africa secured five slots at the FIFA World Cup, providing more representation for African teams.
- Hosting the World Cup: South Africa successfully hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup, marking the first time the event took place on the African continent.
- Expansion of CAF Representation: Africa secured four seats within the FIFA Executive Committee, a notable increase from the previous single seat.
- CAN Expansion: The Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) expanded from 8 to 16 teams in the final phase.
- Introduction of Women’s CAN, U-17 CAN, and U-20 CAN: Hayatou played a role in establishing these competitions to promote women’s and youth football in Africa.
- Champions League Reform: The African Cup of Champion Clubs underwent reforms and transformed into the CAF Champions League.
Controversies and Criticisms:
- Failed World Cup Bids: Morocco’s unsuccessful bids for the 1988 and 1992 World Cups, as well as South Africa’s failed bid in 2000, were setbacks.
- FIFA Presidency: Hayatou’s unsuccessful attempt to secure the FIFA Presidency in 2002.
- Handling of Cabinda Situation: The decision to hold the 2010 CAN in Angola, particularly in Cabinda, a volatile region, led to the Togo national team bus attack, causing deaths and injuries. Hayatou’s subsequent handling of the situation faced criticism.
- Political Interference: Allegations of political interference and manipulation of results in African football competitions.
- Sanctioning of Togo: Hayatou’s decision to sanction Togo for political interference after their withdrawal from the 2010 CAN faced backlash.
As of the time of the article, there were speculations about Mohammed Raouraoua potentially succeeding Hayatou, with Raouraoua having implemented reforms to the CAF eligibility rules. However, this was characterized as speculation, and the actual outcome was yet to be determined.
