Confederation of African Football (CAF) president Patrice Motsepe has confirmed that his current term in office will be his last, signalling his intention to step down when his mandate expires in 2029.
Motsepe made the announcement during a press conference at the CAF Strategy Conference in Cape Verde, where discussions focused on the direction and development of African football.
The South African businessman, who took over as CAF president in March 2021, said he intends to use his remaining time in office to strengthen the foundations of African football and ensure that the progress achieved during his leadership continues beyond his departure.
His announcement provides an indication of his succession plans at a time when CAF continues to pursue reforms aimed at improving the organisation’s operations and raising the competitiveness of football across the continent.
Motsepe was first elected CAF president on March 12, 2021, succeeding Ahmad Ahmad. His election followed a process in which the other candidates withdrew from the contest after discussions involving football stakeholders.
In March 2025, he secured a second term unopposed, extending his leadership of African football’s governing body until 2029.
His decision not to seek another term means CAF will eventually have to identify a successor to lead the organisation after his departure.
Since assuming office, Motsepe has repeatedly emphasised the need to improve the quality and competitiveness of African football, strengthen national associations and ensure that the continent’s football structures are managed effectively.
CAF oversees major continental competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and the CAF Champions League. Its decisions also influence the development of football at national and grassroots levels across Africa.
Motsepe’s remaining years in office are expected to be important for the implementation of the organisation’s long-term plans, particularly efforts to improve competitions, strengthen governance and enhance the global standing of African football.
His announcement also raises the question of who will emerge as a potential successor when the next presidential election approaches. However, no successor has been identified in the details available from the report.
The CAF presidency is one of the most influential positions in African sport, with the office-holder responsible for overseeing the organisation’s strategic direction and representing African football within the international football community.
By confirming that he will not seek to remain in office beyond his current mandate, Motsepe has indicated that his leadership will conclude in 2029, subject to the applicable electoral and governance processes.
His stated priority is to leave CAF with a solid foundation that will enable the organisation and African football to continue developing after his tenure ends.
Source: Thepressradio.com
