Motsepe: "AFCON 2025 Was Most Successful Edition Ever; We Must Respect CAS Decisions"

T.E (Elbotola)

09 April 2026at19:26

Patrice Motsepe, President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), stressed the importance of caution when addressing unconfirmed allegations concerning the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final.

Speaking at a press conference held on Thursday at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, Motsepe stated: "We have issued statements, but we must exercise caution on this matter. When there are baseless allegations, and we attempt to correct them, yet these false claims persist, I will not waste my time responding to issues that lack merit or foundation."

Motsepe further noted CAF's commitment to legal procedures, saying: "According to the regulations, I must await the final ruling."

The CAF President continued: "We adhere to the legal framework, and it is our duty to protect the integrity and reputation of the 54 member associations. In line with this framework, we must respect any decision issued by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), and the directive we have received is not to issue any statements at this time."

He added: "I have held two major press conferences where we discussed many matters, but we always respect the independence of the media."

Motsepe also took the opportunity to commend Morocco's organization of the Africa Cup, stating: "Despite the challenges faced during the final, the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations was the most successful edition of the tournament ever. All aspects, including security, logistics, airports, hotels, football stadiums, and hospitals, were of the highest standard."

He continued: "The warmth and hospitality of the Moroccan people filled me with immense pride; everyone was impressed by how Morocco welcomed the tournament's guests with such affection. I would like to personally thank Fouzi Lekjaa, President of the Moroccan Football Federation, for his outstanding work as both federation president and CAF First Vice President. I also extend my praise to His Majesty the King of Morocco and the people of this great nation."

Q&A

What did Patrice Motsepe say regarding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations?

Patrice Motsepe addressed unconfirmed allegations about the AFCON 2025 final, emphasizing caution and CAF's commitment to legal procedures. He stated CAF must await the final ruling from the Court of Arbitration for Sport and will not respond to baseless claims.

How did Patrice Motsepe evaluate Morocco's organization of AFCON 2025?

Patrice Motsepe highly commended Morocco's organization of the Africa Cup, despite challenges during the final. He declared it the most successful edition ever, praising the high standards of security, logistics, stadiums, and the Moroccan people's hospitality.

Why is CAF committed to respecting decisions from the Court of Arbitration for Sport?

CAF is committed to respecting CAS decisions because it adheres to the legal framework governing football. President Motsepe stressed the duty to protect the integrity and reputation of its member associations, awaiting the final ruling on any allegations.

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