Motsepe vows sweeping reforms as CAF cracks down on indiscipline after AFCON 2025 final chaos

CAF President Patrice Motsepe has announced a major overhaul of the continent’s football statutes, pledging to introduce "appropriate and dissuasive" sanctions for countries and teams that violate the governing body's rules.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, February 13, 2026, following an Executive Committee meeting, Motsepe vowed that the chaotic scenes that marred the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final would "never happen again."

The move follows a series of high-profile disciplinary failures during the tournament’s conclusion in Rabat, Morocco, on January 18, 2026. The final between Senegal and host nation Morocco was characterized by an unprecedented over 14-minute stoppage after Senegalese players and staff walked off the pitch in protest of a late penalty decision. The match was further stained by pitch invasions, clashes between team officials in the VAR area, and reports of fan violence.

"I am deeply disappointed by the unacceptable events that unfolded during the AFCON final," Motsepe told reporters.

"We will amend the CAF Statutes and the Disciplinary Code to ensure that our judicial bodies have the authority to impose punishments that reflect the severity of such conduct. Our goal is to protect the integrity, reputation, and global standing of African football."

While the CAF Disciplinary Board issued heavy fines on January 28, 2026—including $615,000 for Senegal and $315,000 for Morocco—Motsepe argued that existing penalties are insufficient to deter future misconduct.

The proposed reforms aim to empower CAF to issue more severe consequences, potentially including longer bans and higher financial penalties for behavior that brings the game into disrepute.

Beyond disciplinary reforms, Motsepe used the platform in Tanzania to reaffirm the host status of the 2027 AFCON. He dismissed reports suggesting the tournament would be moved away from East Africa, confirming that Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania remain the co-hosts.

He emphasized that the "Pamoja" bid is a priority and that CAF will invest additional resources to improve officiating and VAR standards across the region to ensure a world-class tournament. Motsepe concluded by stressing a "zero tolerance" policy for any conduct that undermines the sport.

"Whether it is the treatment of visiting teams at airports or the behavior of officials on the touchline, every African country must be treated with dignity," he said. "We must stand united to ensure our football is respected globally."

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