Revealed: Why Patrice Motsepe has decided to defend his CAF presidency

Revealed: Why Patrice Motsepe has decided to defend his CAF presidency

Festus Chuma 21:30 - 25.10.2024

CAF President Patrice Motsepe has announced his candidacy for a second term in the March 2025 elections.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) president Patrice Motsepe has officially announced his candidacy for a second term.

Motsepe, who took office in March 2021, is set to compete in the CAF Presidential Elections scheduled for March 2025, following a tenure that has seen substantial reform and progressive policies aimed at elevating African football on the global stage.

The 61-year-old South African billionaire and mining magnate has been a transformative figure in African football governance, emphasizing financial transparency and institutional accountability within CAF.

“CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe finally agrees to stand as Candidate at CAF Presidential Elections in March 2025,” the CAF statement confirmed.

“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.”

Motsepe’s current tenure has been marked by sweeping reforms, including a more rigorous approach to governance and an ambition to grow African football’s influence worldwide.

His administration has prioritized transparency, bolstered by strategic financial management intended to increase revenue streams for African football federations.

Furthermore, Motsepe has underscored the importance of nurturing grassroots talent and expanding CAF competitions to increase opportunities for African clubs and players.

His ultimate vision is for African teams to be recognized as serious contenders on the global football stage.

During his first term, Motsepe’s efforts have helped CAF withstand several financial challenges, notably stabilizing finances amidst the aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic, which had affected the sport globally.

His re-election campaign is built on this foundation, promising to advance African football by focusing on financial security, technical excellence, and infrastructural development.

His vision aligns with the goals of many African football associations, which have endorsed his candidacy in hopes of seeing a continued evolution in their respective national leagues and international competitiveness.