Who Are the Potential Successors to CAF President Patrice Motsepe?

Rabat – Four names have emerged in media reports as potential successors to Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe, who has previously indicated that he does not intend to seek a third term in 2029. According to reports circulating in international sports media, including British newspaper The Guardian, the names being discussed within African football circles are Cameroon Football Federation President Samuel Eto’o, Mauritania Football Federation President Ahmed Yahya, Ivory Coast Football Federation President Yacine Idriss Diallo, and CAF Vice President Souleiman Waberi of Djibouti.

However, none of the four has officially confirmed a candidacy, and the succession process remains at an early stage. Samuel Eto’o: Cameroon’s football icon Samuel Eto’o is one of the most prominent figures in African football. The former Cameroon international, who enjoyed a successful playing career with clubs including Barcelona and Inter Milan, now leads the Cameroon Football Federation.

He also serves on CAF’s Executive Committee, giving him a role in the continental governing body’s decision-making structure. His profile as a former international star makes him one of the most recognizable names being discussed. Ahmed Yahya: Mauritania’s football administrator Ahmed Yahya is president of the Mauritania Football Federation and a member of the FIFA Council.

His administrative experience at both national and international levels places him among the figures mentioned in discussions about CAF’s future leadership. Yacine Idriss Diallo: Ivory Coast’s federation president Yacine Idriss Diallo heads the Ivorian Football Federation and is also a member of CAF’s Executive Committee.

His position within the federation and continental football structures gives him experience in the administration of African football. Souleiman Waberi: CAF vice president Souleiman Waberi, from Djibouti, serves as a CAF vice president and is a member of the FIFA Council. His current responsibilities within the continental and international governing bodies make him another name mentioned in reports about a possible leadership transition.

CAF’s leadership after Motsepe Motsepe, a South African businessman who became CAF president in March 2021, was re-elected unopposed in March 2025 for a second term running until 2029. His previously stated intention not to seek a third term has prompted discussion about who could eventually replace him.

The next leadership transition could come at a significant moment for African football, with debates continuing over the organization of the Africa Cup of Nations and the future direction of the continental game.