The Confederation of African Football has announced major reforms aimed at restoring credibility in African football following controversy surrounding the final of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025.
Speaking on 29 March, CAF president Patrice Motsepe said the governing body is taking decisive steps to address concerns over refereeing decisions, Video Assistant Referee operations and disciplinary processes during the final match.
Motsepe said the reforms are designed to ensure similar incidents do not occur in future competitions while rebuilding trust among players, teams and fans across the continent.
CAF confirmed that changes are already being implemented across key operational areas, including referee training, VAR protocols and match oversight. The reforms follow widespread debate after the AFCON 2025 final, where officiating decisions drew criticism.
Motsepe said CAF is working closely with FIFA to improve the quality and consistency of officiating in Africa through enhanced training for referees, VAR operators and match commissioners.
He said the goal is to ensure African officials perform at the same level as the best in the world, adding that CAF will also professionalise refereeing and improve compensation structures.
Governance and officiating reforms
CAF has also revised its statutes and regulations governing disciplinary and appeal processes. Motsepe said maintaining the independence and impartiality of judicial bodies remains a top priority.
Appointments to disciplinary and appeal boards will continue to be made by the CAF executive committee and general assembly based on nominations from member associations and zonal unions.
The organisation has consulted leading African and international legal experts to ensure its updated framework aligns with global best practice. These measures are aimed at strengthening transparency, fairness and accountability in decision-making.
Motsepe reiterated CAF commitment to a zero-tolerance policy on corruption and misconduct, noting that governance improvements in recent years have strengthened confidence among sponsors and stakeholders.
He said CAF will treat all member associations equally and fairly, with no country receiving preferential treatment.
Beyond officiating and governance, the reforms form part of a broader strategy to improve the competitiveness of African football globally. Motsepe pointed to the strong performance of referees during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Côte d’Ivoire 2023 as a benchmark.
CAF will continue reviewing its systems to ensure alignment with international standards while supporting African nations preparing for the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Motsepe said the reforms are essential to safeguarding the integrity of African football and rebuilding trust across the game.
