Motsepe, who was first elected in 2021, has been credited with improving CAF’s finances and governance. CAF Secretary General Veron Mosengo-Omba praised Motsepe’s leadership, stating, “Patrice was a gift for African football. In 2021, CAF was a toxic body. He brought good governance to all levels of the organisation.”
Samuel Eto’o Elected to CAF Executive Committee
In another significant development, former Cameroon star Samuel Eto’o was elected to the CAF executive committee by acclamation. The 44-year-old, who is the president of the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT), was the sole candidate from the central Africa region.
Eto’o’s election came just a week after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) overturned a CAF ban imposed on him last year. The ban, which included a $200,000 fine, was related to an ethics breach after Eto’o became a brand ambassador for a betting organisation. CAF had accused him of violating principles of ethics, integrity, and sportsmanship.
Controversies Surrounding Eto’o
Eto’o’s tenure as FECAFOOT president has been marked by several controversies. In 2022, he was caught on video assaulting a fan outside a stadium during the World Cup in Qatar, for which he later apologised. He also faced a six-month FIFA ban from attending Cameroon national team matches following an incident at the Women’s Under-20 World Cup in Colombia.
Additionally, Eto’o has clashed with Belgian coach Marc Brys, who was appointed head coach of the Cameroon men’s national team last year.
A Glittering Playing Career
Despite the controversies, Eto’o is widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest footballers. He won the Olympic gold medal with Cameroon in 2000 and was part of the teams that claimed the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) titles in 2000 and 2002. Eto’o also holds the record for the most goals scored in AFCON history, with 18, and represented Cameroon in four World Cups and six AFCON tournaments.