Patrice Motsepe Re-Elected as CAF President for Second Term

South African billionaire Patrice Motsepe has secured another four-year term as the president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF). His unopposed re-election was confirmed during the 14th extraordinary general assembly of CAF, held on Wednesday in Cairo, Egypt.

Motsepe, ranked as Africa’s ninth richest individual, initially took office in 2021, making history as the first English-speaking leader of the continent’s football governing body. He succeeded Ahmad Ahmad, who was suspended by FIFA in 2020 over financial misconduct allegations.

During his tenure, Motsepe spearheaded significant financial improvements in African football, including a 40% increase in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) prize money, which now stands at $7 million. He also boosted the rewards for the CAF men’s and women’s Champions Leagues.

Additionally, he played a pivotal role in the launch of the African Football League (AFL), which was initially planned for 24 teams with a $100 million budget but later commenced with just eight clubs. South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns emerged victorious in the league’s inaugural edition in 2023.