CAF President Motsepe Opens To Corruption Probe Amid AFCON Crisis

The president of the Confederation of African Football, Patrice Motsepe, has declared he would “encourage” a full investigation into alleged corruption within the organisation, as African football grapples with a growing crisis of confidence.

Motsepe’s remarks come in the wake of a controversial decision to strip Senegal of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, awarding the trophy instead to Morocco following a ruling by CAF’s appeals board. The decision has sparked outrage, with Senegal’s government calling for an independent probe and lodging an appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Speaking during a visit to Dakar, where he met President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and football officials, Motsepe insisted CAF has nothing to hide.

“I welcome any investigation into corruption at CAF, whether by a government or any authority,” he said at a press conference. “If there is corruption, we want to know about it and we will act immediately. We will give full co-operation — in fact, I encourage it.”

The controversy stems from the AFCON final in Rabat on 18 January, when Senegal were initially declared winners after defeating Morocco 1-0 following extra time. However, the match was marred by a dramatic protest, with Senegal players briefly walking off the pitch after a contentious late penalty was awarded to Morocco. The spot-kick, taken by Brahim Diaz, was saved, but the incident ultimately led to disciplinary action.

CAF’s appeals board later ruled that Senegal had forfeited the final due to their protest, a decision that has plunged the governing body into turmoil. The fallout has already seen the resignation of former CAF general secretary Veron Mosengo-Omba in March.

Motsepe struck a firm tone on governance, reiterating his uncompromising stance against malpractice.

“I have zero tolerance for corruption — it is worse than Covid and cancer,” he said. “While I am president of CAF, we will never conceal any wrongdoing. Football must set the right example for our children. Success cannot be built on corruption.”

He added that beyond rhetoric, CAF is committed to enforcing stricter regulations and taking decisive action where necessary, as it seeks to restore trust in African football administration.