CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe has announced his intention to seek a second term in office, ending months of speculation over his future at the helm of African football. This decision comes after strong support from various football associations and key stakeholders across the continent, urging him to continue his leadership.
Motsepe’s announcement was confirmed in a statement by CAF on Friday, stating: “Following requests from numerous CAF Member Association Presidents, Zonal Union Presidents, and key stakeholders, the CAF President, Dr Patrice Motsepe has finally agreed to stand as a candidate at the CAF Presidential Elections scheduled for March 2025.”
The South African billionaire and businessman was first elected unopposed in March 2021 in Rabat, Morocco.
Since then, he has overseen significant reforms and stabilization within CAF, a much-needed change after the controversies that marred the tenure of his predecessor, Ahmad Ahmad.
Motsepe’s tenure has been marked by efforts to restore CAF’s credibility, financial stability, and increased commercial sponsorships, making his leadership widely appreciated by many in the football community.
Motsepe’s decision to run for re-election follows overwhelming appeals from various quarters.
Several football associations (FAs) across Africa have reportedly approached him, urging him to remain in office.
During the 46th CAF General Assembly in Addis Ababa earlier this week, Zonal Union Presidents from CECAFA, WAFU A, WAFU B, COSAFA, and UNIFFAC publicly pleaded with Motsepe to seek re-election, assuring him of their full support.
The Zonal Union CECAFA even went as far as begging Motsepe to continue, while WAFU B declared they would pick up a nomination form on his behalf, “whether he likes it or not.”
Only the Union of North African Federations (UNAF), comprising just five members, did not publicly back Motsepe’s candidacy.
This is likely because of reports suggesting that Egyptian football official Hany Abo Rida may enter the race, making the competition more intense in North Africa.
During his time as CAF President, Motsepe has been credited with bringing much-needed stability and financial growth to the organisation.
He took over after scandals rocked CAF, leading to a ban on former President Ahmad Ahmad over financial misconduct.
Under Motsepe, CAF has seen an increase in sponsorships, with more brands aligning themselves with African football.
As one of the richest men in Africa, his business acumen and credibility have been instrumental in building new partnerships, creating a more robust financial base for CAF.
A key reason for Motsepe’s decision to run again is the wide acceptance of his reforms across the continent.
These reforms, which have focused on governance, youth development, and the growth of women’s football, have earned him praise from many in the footballing community.
Motsepe has also overseen the introduction of new initiatives, including the enhancement of refereeing standards and the successful implementation of VAR technology across more competitions.
His leadership has brought a fresh perspective to CAF, raising club standards and boosting TV audiences, which in turn, has increased the visibility of African football on the global stage.
Despite the overwhelming support, there are some challenges that Motsepe could face in his bid for a second term.
Reports indicate that former Egyptian FA chief Hany Abo Rida could contest against him, making it potentially the first competitive CAF election since Motsepe’s unopposed appointment in 2021.
However, with the backing of major Zonal Unions and numerous member associations, Motsepe appears to be coasting to a landslide victory even if someone decides to contest him.
As the March 2025 election approaches, all eyes will be on whether the South African mogul can sustain the momentum he has built in the past four years and continue steering CAF toward a brighter, more stable future.
His supporters believe that a second term would allow him to consolidate the gains achieved so far and further strengthen the foundations he has laid during his tenure.
