By Awambeng Fuh
Journalist kick442.com – Cameroon
CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe has set out an ambitious vision for the future of African football, promising increased prize money, stronger competitions and a commercial transformation aimed at placing the continent on a firmer global footing.
Speaking on the long-term direction of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and new CAF competitions, Motsepe said African football is already in a “much better situation” than before his leadership began, pointing to financial growth and expanded participation.
The numbers and the figures don’t lie,” Motsepe said. “We had only one competition that makes money. We increased the number of participants. We will have the best African players in Europe, Asia, and we are proud of them.”
AFCON prize money boosted
One of Motsepe’s most tangible reforms has been the significant increase in prize money for AFCON. The winner’s prize has risen from $4m to $10m, a move CAF says is designed to strengthen national teams, improve football infrastructure and attract greater commercial interest.
I immediately increased the prize money for the AFCON,” he said. “It was $4 million, now it’s $10 million.”
CAF believes higher financial rewards will help federations reinvest in youth development, coaching and domestic leagues across the continent.
African Nations League ambitions
Motsepe also revealed bold plans for the African Nations League, a competition CAF wants to elevate to rival AFCON in prestige and excitement.
Part of my objective is to make sure the African Nations League competes with the AFCON,” he said. “We gotta make it at least as exciting, if not more.”
According to Motsepe, CAF is targeting a $10m winner’s prize for the Nations League, matching AFCON’s top reward and signalling its importance in the future international calendar.
My aim is to get $10 million as the winner’s prize for the African Nations League and make sure it competes with the AFCON in every sense.”
Listening to critics
Motsepe acknowledged that CAF’s reforms have attracted criticism but said feedback from stakeholders is essential to progress.
We have to listen to our sponsors, fans, and the media,” he said. “We appreciate your criticisms. It’s a learning curve.”
CAF has faced scrutiny in recent years over scheduling, governance and commercial strategy, but Motsepe insists transparency and engagement remain central to his leadership.
Legacy focus
Looking ahead, the CAF president said his ultimate goal is to leave African football stronger and more sustainable than he found it.
One day, when I am no longer the CAF president, I’ll look back at this leadership and be proud of the good job done,” Motsepe said. “It must continue.”
With AFCON expanding, prize money rising and new competitions being prioritised, CAF’s leadership believes African football is entering a new era — one it hopes will deliver both sporting excellence and financial stability.
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