Confederation of African Football President Patrice Motsepe has reiterated the organisation’s determination to continue investing heavily in the training and development of referees and VAR operators across the continent, insisting that the integrity of African football remains a top priority.
Addressing the media at a press conference on Friday, Motsepe explained that CAF’s sustained investment in officiating is driven by the need to ensure fairness and restore confidence among supporters. He stressed that referees, VAR officials and match commissioners must operate with the highest levels of professionalism and impartiality for competitions to maintain their credibility.
“As CAF, we have a deep commitment and an absolutely non-negotiable commitment that we will maintain the integrity, we will maintain the integrity, we will maintain the impartiality of referees, African referees, CAF referees, VAR operators and match commissioners,” Motsepe said.
He further underlined CAF’s position by adding, “CAF will continue to spend and train referees and VAR operators. The ordinary football fan must have trust in the judgment of referees and VAR operators.”
Motsepe’s comments come against the backdrop of widespread criticism of officiating during the Africa Cup of Nations staged in Morocco in 2025, where several decisions throughout the competition sparked debate. Concerns were raised at different stages of the tournament, with fans and observers questioning the consistency of refereeing calls.
The controversy peaked during the final between Morocco and Senegal, which became chaotic after the referee awarded a penalty to the host nation, a decision that drew strong reactions and overshadowed the closing moments of the tournament.
With his latest remarks, Motsepe sought to reassure stakeholders that CAF is aware of these concerns and is committed to long-term improvements that will strengthen trust in officiating across African football.
