Patrice Motsepe has emerged President of the Confederation of African Football, CAF, from the just concluded elections held in Rabat, Morocco.
The South African billionaire who is also Africa’s ninth richest person according to Forbe’s report, ran opposed following the withdrawal of three contenders Jacques Anouma, Augustin Senghor and Ahmed Yahya last weekend.
Addressing a gathering of Africa’s member associations at the elections, the new president stressed his belief in how the unity can herald a new era for African football.
“It’s a huge honour and privilege for me to be CAF president,” said Motsepe,
“Let me thank my brother FIFA President Gianni Infantino. for the vision and encouragement of unity. We can only deal with the challenges of Africa and we will succeed, but we will only do so when we are united,” he said.
Motsepe enjoined Africa’s assembled member association presidents and Executive Committee to be hopeful for a brighter future in African football.
“The leadership we have in Africa and the leadership we have of football in every country gives me confidence and inspires me.
“I am absolutely confident that by working together, we will indeed succeed to make African football not just reach the summit but be amongst the best in the world,” he added.
Motsepe owns one of South Africa’s most successful teams, Mamelodi Sundowns, the 2016 African champions, and has previously spoken of his desire to see an African team win the World Cup.
The General Assembly comprising of 52 members present – with Chad and Eritrea the only countries failing to attend – also voted to expand the number of CAF vice-presidents from three to five.
Elections are still ongoing for both CAF’s Executive Committee and for Africa’s representation on the FIFA Council with results expected shortly.
