Speaking in a statement published on the CAF website on Friday, Motsepe said he was “extremely disappointed with the unacceptable incidences” at the tournament’s finals but assured that CAF would act decisively to uphold standards.
“I am absolutely determined, and the CAF Executive Committee (EXCO), as well as the CAF Member Association Presidents, representing 54 African countries, are also determined, to maintain and advance the integrity, reputation, and global competitiveness of African football and CAF competitions,” he said.
Regulatory Review and Judicial Strengthening
Motsepe confirmed that CAF’s highest decision-making body outside the Annual Ordinary General Assembly would convene to review regulations, including the CAF Disciplinary Code. The review aims to ensure that CAF’s judicial bodies are fully empowered to impose dissuasive sanctions for serious violations.
“To ensure that the CAF Judicial Bodies have the power to impose appropriate and dissuasive sanctions for serious violations of the CAF Statutes, Regulations, and Disciplinary Code—and for conduct that seriously undermines the reputation, integrity, and global competitiveness of African football and CAF competitions,” Motsepe said.
He also confirmed adherence to the rulings issued by CAF’s judicial structures, including the decision of the CAF Disciplinary Board announced on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
Focus on Refereeing and Match Officiating
Addressing refereeing standards, Motsepe highlighted significant improvements in the quality, integrity, and expertise of African referees, VAR operators, and match commissioners in recent years. CAF plans to further invest in training and resources to ensure African officials meet the highest global standards.
“One of the first changes I introduced when I became President of CAF was to ensure that the CAF Referees Committee is independent, impartial, and consists of members proposed by the 54 CAF Member Associations, as well as the most qualified and respected referees in Africa,” Motsepe said.
He stressed that African officials must be perceived globally as impartial, fair, and world-class, reinforcing CAF’s ongoing efforts to professionalize officiating across the continent.
Looking Ahead
Motsepe concluded by expressing confidence in the future of African football. “With the additional changes and extensive measures that we are introducing, African football and CAF competitions will continue to be respected, admired, and among the best in the world,” he said.