CAF reforms are aimed at restoring trust in referees, VAR officials, and the organisation’s judicial processes after a series of controversies at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The Confederation of African Football has taken this step to address concerns over governance, accountability, and the integrity of officiating across African football.
The 2025 AFCON final exposed weaknesses in oversight that CAF now says must be corrected. Officials acknowledged that public scrutiny and criticism highlighted the need for more rigorous structures and procedures. CAF has therefore undertaken a comprehensive review of its statutes and regulations to strengthen professionalism and transparency within its disciplinary and refereeing systems.
In its statement, CAF outlined the central role of its judicial bodies in maintaining fairness. Judges and lawyers appointed to the CAF Disciplinary Board and Appeal Board are selected through recommendations from the 54 member associations and CAF’s Zonal Unions. Final appointments are made by the CAF Executive Committee and ratified by the Ordinary General Assembly. CAF emphasised that the independence of these judicial bodies is essential to uphold credibility and impartiality.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe said the reforms were informed by consultations with leading legal and football experts. He described the changes as “far-reaching” and essential to ensuring that incidents like those in Morocco 2025 cannot recur. The reforms include revised appointment procedures, stricter oversight of referees and VAR operators, and enhanced disciplinary frameworks.
Motsepe also stressed the importance of professional development. CAF is collaborating with FIFA to deliver ongoing training for African referees, VAR operators, and match commissioners. The aim is to raise standards to match the best international levels while providing appropriate professional compensation. This approach reflects CAF’s commitment to both integrity and professionalisation.
CAF’s leadership reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on corruption and improper behaviour. Motsepe noted that sponsors and partners have recognised CAF’s efforts to enforce fairness and transparency. He insisted that all member associations will be treated equally, without preferential treatment or bias, underlining the organisation’s dedication to equitable governance.
The Morocco 2025 AFCON final remains under review by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, while CAF continues to focus on current competitions and preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The reforms signal a deliberate attempt to rebuild confidence, safeguard the credibility of African football, and ensure that future tournaments meet the highest standards of fairness and professionalism.
