Africa’s 1st black billionaire Patrice Motsepe has been re-elected unopposed as the president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) during the organization’s congress in Cairo on Wednesday.
The South African mining magnate who has led CAF since 2021, will serve another four-year term after once again running unchallenged. His initial election was strongly backed by FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
The lack of challengers in Patrice Motsepe’s re-election as CAF president could be seen as a strong vote of confidence in his leadership, having taken over at a time of crisis.
When Motsepe first assumed office in 2021, he succeeded Madagascar’s Ahmad Ahmad, who had become the first CAF president to be banned by FIFA.
Since then, CAF has made significant financial strides, recording a $72 million (£55.5m) profit from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), 18 times more than the revenue generated from the 2022 edition.
Under Motsepe’s leadership, CAF has also increased prize money across its competitions. The AFCON winner’s purse was raised by over 40% to $7 million, while the prize money for both the men’s and women’s CAF Champions League has also been boosted.
In addition to Motsepe’s re-election, four-time African Footballer of the Year Samuel Eto’o secured a seat on CAF’s executive committee, further strengthening his role in shaping African football governance.
Motsepe, whose family trust owns South African club Mamelodi Sundowns, remains a key figure in the development of football on the continent, as CAF continues its push for financial growth and competitive improvement.
