CAIRO (BG) — Dr. Patrice Motsepe has been re-elected as president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) during the 14th Extraordinary General Assembly held Wednesday in Cairo.

“Four more years for Dr. Patrice Motsepe to continue with the progress agenda of African football,” CAF posted on social media following his re-election.

In his address, Motsepe highlighted the significant commercial impact of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations, hosted in Côte d’Ivoire in 2023.

“We had 180 countries watching the tournament… It was a historic moment for African football,” he said.

“It tells our partners that there is a commercial aspect to our football. This attracts more sponsors, and this is good for our development,” the African football chief added.

The 63-year-old’s re-election solidifies his leadership of the continent’s football governing body amid efforts to enhance CAF’s influence.

The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, widely followed, has opened new commercial avenues, drawing the attention of international investors and sponsors.

Motsepe, a South African billionaire, emphasized that this visibility is a crucial driver for the sport’s growth in Africa.

“The goal remains making African football globally competitive, stabilizing finances, and investing in infrastructure,” he said.

The assembly also marked another notable moment: Cameroonian football legend Samuel Eto’o was elected to the CAF Executive Committee.

His inclusion promises to bring valuable expertise, blending his on-field legacy with his current role as president of the Cameroon Football Federation.

Eto’o, whose influence transcends borders, could play a pivotal role in shaping the confederation’s future strategies.

This dual announcement reflects a push for renewal and professionalism within CAF.

As African football continues to rise, challenges remain, particularly in infrastructure and governance. “The goal remains making African football globally competitive, stabilizing finances, and investing in infrastructure,” Motsepe said.

With Motsepe at the helm and Eto’o on the executive committee, CAF seems to have a strong team to address these issues.