Patrice Motsepe: 'Deeply Disappointed by Unacceptable AFCON Final Events'

Patrice Motsepe, President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), has expressed profound disappointment regarding the incidents witnessed during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final in Morocco. He emphasized that these occurrences are entirely unacceptable and detrimental to the reputation and integrity of African football.

In an official statement, Motsepe declared: "I am determined, alongside the CAF Executive Committee and the 54 Member Association Presidents, to protect the integrity of African football and develop our competitions globally. I am deeply disappointed by the unacceptable events in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final in Morocco, and I affirm my full respect for the decisions of CAF's judicial bodies."

He added that CAF has called for an Executive Committee meeting to review its regulations, including the Disciplinary Code. This initiative aims to ensure that deterrent sanctions are imposed for any violations that could undermine the reputation and integrity of African football.

Motsepe also pointed to continuous efforts to enhance the quality and efficiency of African referees, Video Assistant Referee (VAR) operators, and match commissioners. He confirmed that additional resources and advanced technical expertise are being allocated to bolster standards of integrity and impartiality on a global level.

He further asserted that the CAF Referees Committee has been restructured to be independent and neutral. Its members are now proposed by Member Associations and comprise Africa's most qualified referees, ensuring their global respect and appreciation.

The CAF President concluded his statement by saying: "I am confident that the new measures and changes will ensure that African football and CAF competitions continue to earn global respect and admiration, remaining among the best in the world."