CAF Moved from $150 Million Debt to $150 Million in Reserves

CAF Moved from $150 Million Debt to $150 Million in Reserves — Motsepe

Patrice Motsepe said that when he assumed office in 2021, CAF was carrying debt of approximately $150 million. Five years later, the organisation now has $150 million in its bank account. Photo: CAF

Confederation of African Football (CAF) president Patrice Motsepe says African football’s governing body has undergone a remarkable financial turnaround during his tenure, transforming from an organisation burdened by debt into one with substantial financial reserves.

Motsepe said that when he assumed office in 2021, CAF was carrying debt of approximately $150 million. Five years later, he said, the organisation now has $150 million in its bank account, positioning it to make significant investments in the development of football across the continent.

“The CAF I inherited was in debt of about $150 million. Today, we have about $150 million in our bank account that will be used to improve African football,” Motsepe said.

The South African businessman and former Mamelodi Sundowns president described the financial recovery as a collective achievement, crediting reforms aimed at strengthening governance, improving commercial partnerships and restoring confidence among sponsors and stakeholders.

Motsepe spoke to journalists during the press conference at the Sandton Sun Hotel in Johannesburg on Wednesday, regarding key African football developments, with a primary focus on reviewing the continent’s performance at the recent FIFA World Cup 2026. He said the improved financial position would enable CAF to increase investment in football infrastructure, youth development, women’s football and competitions across Africa.

The businessman reiterated that the organisation’s priority is to ensure that the financial gains translate into tangible improvements for member associations and clubs throughout the continent.

Since taking over the CAF presidency, Motsepe has repeatedly emphasised financial stability and transparency as central pillars of his administration. Under his leadership, CAF has also announced increased prize money for several competitions and sought to expand the commercial appeal of African football.

The financial turnaround marks one of the most significant financial recoveries in the history of the continental governing body. It comes as CAF seeks to strengthen its global standing while accelerating investment in the growth of the African game.