Motsepe to step down in 2029, backs Infantino for another term

Confederation of African Football (CAF) President, Patrice Motsepe, has reiterated that he will step down when his current term ends in 2029, insisting he has no intention of serving beyond two terms.

The mining tycoon and former Mamelodi Sundowns president took over as CAF President in March 2021, and was re-elected for a second term in 2025.

“There are certain things you should never be persuaded about. And nobody is going to persuade me to spend more than two terms as CAF president,” Motsepe told a media briefing in Sandton on Wednesday.

Motsepe also reaffirmed his support for incumbent FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, backing him to continue leading world football.

“I personally support Infantino, he is a good friend, a loyal friend,” said Motsepe.

“He is loyal to Africa. I come from a different background, when people have been loyal to you, you never step them in the back,” he added.

Motsepe also dismissed speculation linking him to the FIFA presidency, saying he has no interest in leading the global governing body.

“To help in Africa, that excites me. FIFA doesn’t need me (as president),” he said. “There are other people who are very good. And who do a good job. We have to be careful that we don’t start focusing too much on certain individuals. Everybody makes a contribution.”

CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe to hold a Press Conference on Wednesday in Johannesburghttps://t.co/JDrX8LtWvQ

— CAF Media (@CAF_Media) July 20, 2026

Written by: Ntsako Mukhari