CAF set to implement sweeping reforms after AFCON 2025 final controversy
The Confederation of African Football is preparing to roll out major structural and regulatory reforms across African football following the incidents that marred the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
CAF President, Patrice Motsepe, has confirmed that the continental body is undertaking a comprehensive review of its statutes and operational systems, targeting key areas such as officiating, disciplinary processes and governance standards.
According to Motsepe, the reforms are designed to “restore confidence and credibility in African football institutions, particularly among referees, VAR operators and match officials.”
The changes aim to ensure that the controversies witnessed during the AFCON final are not repeated.
A central pillar of the reform agenda is the strengthening of regulatory frameworks. CAF has consulted leading African and international football legal experts to align its statutes with global best practices.
This includes tightening disciplinary procedures and improving the transparency and independence of decision-making bodies such as the Disciplinary and Appeal Boards.
Another critical focus is officiating standards. CAF is working closely with FIFA to enhance the training and development of referees, VAR operators and match commissioners across the continent. Motsepe stressed that African officials must reach and consistently maintain world-class levels.
Beyond training, CAF is pushing for the professionalisation of referees. Better remuneration and structured career systems are being considered to improve performance, accountability and integrity within officiating.
Motsepe also reaffirmed CAF’s strict stance on governance, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption and improper conduct. He noted that recent improvements in transparency and ethical standards have already strengthened CAF’s reputation, attracting new sponsors and partners over the past five years.
Equally important is CAF’s commitment to fairness among its member associations. The governing body insists that no nation will receive preferential treatment, reinforcing a level playing field across all competitions.
While the legal matters related to the AFCON 2025 final are currently before the Court of Arbitration for Sport, CAF’s immediate focus remains on its ongoing competitions, including the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup, as well as preparations for African teams heading to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
With these reforms, CAF is signaling a decisive shift toward stronger governance, improved officiating standards and greater global competitiveness for African football.