CAF President Motsepe asserts African football unity ahead of 2027 AFCON
Patrice Motsepe confirms Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania hosting deal and backs Infantino’s re-election bid
Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe has declared that an African nation is poised to win the FIFA World Cup, citing Morocco’s semi-final run in the previous tournament as proof of the continent’s growing competitive stature. Speaking to France 24 at the Africa Forward summit in Nairobi on 13 May 2026, Motsepe emphasised the need for African football to maintain high aspirations, stating, "We have to aspire high and high."
The comments come in the wake of a significant administrative controversy, where the CAF stripped Senegal of the most recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title and awarded it to Morocco. Motsepe addressed the unprecedented decision by asserting that the confederation is now "stronger, more united than ever." He described the recent tournament in Morocco as "the most successful AFCON," despite expressing deep disappointment regarding the events that led to Senegal’s disqualification.
Looking ahead to the next continental championship, Motsepe confirmed that Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania remain fully committed to hosting the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled for June and July 2027. He outlined a strategy of continuous improvement, noting that "every AFCON has to be better than the previous one" and that the host nations have set "very high standards" for the upcoming event.
On the global stage, the CAF president addressed concerns regarding visa restrictions for the 2026 World Cup, which is jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. Motsepe expressed confidence that the host governments are fully committed to welcoming international fans, including those from Africa. He noted that the American government, alongside Canada and Mexico, has demonstrated a total commitment to facilitating the arrival of players and spectators from around the world.
In a move with broader institutional implications, Motsepe voiced his support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s bid for a new mandate in 2027. He characterised Infantino as a "loyal and trustworthy supporter of world football and of African football," signalling continued alignment between the CAF and FIFA leadership as the confederation seeks to consolidate its position in international governance.
