Motsepe re-elected unopposed as CAF President, Pinnick lose

Dr. Patrice Motsepe has been re-elected unopposed as President of the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) for a second four-year term.

Meanwhile, Amaju Pinnick, Nigeria’s candidate for the FIFA Council, narrowly missed out on retaining his seat, losing by just a single vote.

The decision was confirmed at the 14th CAF Extraordinary General Assembly in Cairo on Wednesday, extending his leadership of the organisation until 2029.

Motsepe’s re-election comes after a first term widely praised for stabilising CAF’s finances and boosting its global profile.

Under his leadership, the organisation set several new records at the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Cote d’Ivoire 2023, attracting a record of 1.4 billion viewers worldwide.

The prize money for major tournaments, including the CAF Champions League and Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, also increased significantly, alongside enhanced financial support for Member Associations.

The 63-year-old faced no opposition after the nomination deadline passed in Nov. 2024.

His decision to run again followed requests from Member Association Presidents and key stakeholders.

“The goal remains making African football globally competitive, stabilising finances and investing in infrastructure,” he said.

Pinnick on his part received 28 votes; one shy of both Ahmed Yahya of Mauritania and Souleman Waberi of Djibouti, who both secured 29 votes each to claim their places on the prestigious panel.

Morocco’s Fouzi Lekjaa emerged as the leader, receiving 49 votes, while Egypt’s Hany Abou Rida and Niger’s Djibrilla Hima Hamidou both garnered 35 votes.

These leaders, along with Yahya and Waberi, will join CAF President Motsepe as Africa’s representatives on the FIFA Council.

Kanizat Ibrahim