The legendary former president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Issa Hayatou has passed away on August 8, 2024, in France, just before his 78th birthday, AfricaSoccer.com has learnt.
Hayatou led CAF for nearly three decades, was instrumental in elevating African football on the global stage.
His death marks the end of a significant chapter in African sports history. Hayatou was at the helm of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) from 1988 to 2017, making him one of the longest-serving sports administrators in the world.
His tenure was marked by monumental achievements, including the expansion of the Africa Cup of Nations and increasing Africa’s representation in the FIFA World Cup, which allowed the continent to field five teams instead of the previous two or three.
His most celebrated achievement was securing the 2010 FIFA World Cup for South Africa, the first time the tournament was held on African soil.
This moment was a defining point in his career and a source of immense pride for the continent.
However, his career wasn’t without controversy; Hayatou faced allegations of corruption, including involvement in FIFA scandals, although he consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Hayatou’s influence extended beyond football. He was also involved in the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and served as FIFA’s interim president in 2015.
His passing is a significant loss for African football and sports in general. The legacy he leaves behind is one of resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to the development of African football on the global stage.
