The Confederation of African Football (CAF) says it has begun implementing amendments to its statutes and regulatory framework in a bid to restore confidence in officiating and disciplinary processes across its competitions.
The governing body disclosed that the reforms are targeted at strengthening trust in referees, video assistant referees (VAR), match commissioners, and its judicial bodies, including the disciplinary and appeal boards.
CAF said the changes were partly triggered by incidents that marred the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, which drew widespread criticism and scrutiny from stakeholders.
The organisation added that the overhaul is designed to prevent a recurrence of such controversies and reinforce integrity in decision-making processes on and off the pitch.
It, however, noted that officiating standards during the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire were widely praised, and expressed determination to return to that level of credibility.
CAF maintained that the independence of its judicial structures remains central to the reforms, insisting that disciplinary and appeal bodies will continue to be composed of respected African legal experts.
According to the body, members of these panels are appointed by its executive committee and ratified by the general assembly, based on nominations from member associations and zonal unions.
Patrice Motsepe, CAF president, said the reforms are far-reaching and aimed at aligning African football governance with international best practices.
Motsepe said the organisation had consulted leading legal experts within and outside the continent to ensure that its revised statutes meet global standards and enhance transparency.
He added that CAF would also prioritise improved welfare, training, and professionalisation of referees and VAR officials as part of efforts to raise officiating standards.
The CAF president reiterated a zero-tolerance stance on corruption and misconduct, noting that recent governance reforms have already improved confidence among sponsors and partners.
He also stressed that fairness among member associations remains non-negotiable, warning that no country would receive preferential treatment under the current leadership.
Motsepe further disclosed that disputes arising from the AFCON 2025 final are currently before the Court of Arbitration for Sport, even as CAF focuses on ongoing competitions.
The development comes amid lingering controversy over the tournament’s final, including CAF’s decision to overturn Senegal’s 1-0 victory over Morocco and award a 3-0 win to the North African side.
The ruling followed a protest by Senegal players, who staged a brief walk-off during the match over a contentious penalty decision.
Senegal has since challenged the decision at the arbitration court, while its head coach insisted the team won the title on merit and remains convinced of its status as African champions.
