CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe has announced that he will not pursue a third term as head of African football’s governing body when his current mandate expires in 2029.
The South African football administrator’s decision brings clarity to his future at CAF, ending speculation over whether he would attempt to extend his stay in office beyond the two terms he is expected to serve.
Motsepe assumed the CAF presidency in 2021 after succeeding Ahmad Ahmad and was later granted a second mandate to continue leading the organisation. Although CAF’s statutes allow him the possibility of contesting for another term, the billionaire businessman has chosen not to continue beyond 2029.
His decision comes during a period of major changes within African football, with CAF under his leadership implementing several reforms aimed at improving competitions, increasing financial support and strengthening football development across the continent.
Since taking charge, Motsepe has overseen increases in prize money for CAF competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations and Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, while also pushing investment into youth football, coaching programmes and infrastructure development.
The CAF president has consistently outlined his ambition of making African football more competitive globally and has repeatedly stated his belief that an African nation can eventually win the FIFA World Cup.
His confidence in the continent’s football potential has been reinforced by recent performances on the international stage, particularly at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where African teams achieved their best-ever collective showing, with nine out of 10 representatives advancing beyond the group stage.
Motsepe believes the progress made under his administration must continue beyond his tenure, with CAF expected to maintain its focus on improving standards across all 54 member associations.
The decision not to seek another mandate will now shift attention towards the future leadership of CAF and the potential candidates who could compete to succeed him in 2029.
Motsepe is expected to use the remainder of his presidency to consolidate the reforms introduced during his tenure and strengthen the structures he believes are necessary for Africa to compete with the world’s football elite.
If he leaves office in 2029 as planned, Motsepe will depart after serving two terms as CAF president, having played a key role in shaping the direction of African football during a period of significant transformation.
