Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe visited Morocco on April 9, 2026, as part of a mediation mission to ease tensions following the controversial final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This visit follows an initial stop in Senegal, where similar discussions took place.
Motsepe met with Moroccan officials to express his personal commitment to the Moroccan people, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), and King Mohammed VI. He also expressed his "very great disappointment" at the events that occurred during the AFCON 2025 final.
The AFCON 2025 final was marred by controversy, leading to tensions between Senegal and Morocco. CAF initially awarded the victory to Morocco after a Senegalese protest, but this decision was taken to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAS). The body will have to make a final decision on the outcome of this final, a decision that is highly anticipated in the world of African football.
In parallel with his mediation efforts, Patrice Motsepe announced upcoming reforms within CAF's regulations to harmonize them with those of FIFA. "We are implementing important changes to CAF's regulations because CAF competitions are based on FIFA regulations. Some regulations need to be changed. Our respect for the laws reflects our determination to ensure respect for African football," he said.
Motsepe's visit to Morocco is part of a broader approach to manage the fallout from AFCON 2025 and preserve the integrity of CAF competitions. He is scheduled to hold a press conference in Rabat to provide clarification on recent decisions and broader issues concerning the governing body of African football.
CAF confirmed Motsepe's visit to Morocco in a statement, noting that he would meet with FRMF President Fouzi Lekjaa, as well as other members of the Moroccan football community. CAF is expected to hold a press conference in Rabat at 17:00 local time to provide more details on this visit.
The outcome of the AFCON 2025 final and the decisions of TAS will have a significant impact on the future of African football.
