Motsepe to inspect Kenya’s AFCON readiness
CAIRO: CAF President, Patrice Motsepe, is set to conduct a high-profile inspection of Kenya’s stadium and infrastructure readiness, signalling a firm commitment to ensuring East Africa is prepared for its upcoming continental hosting duties.
He said at a press conference in Cairo yesterday, that development of top-tier facilities remains the cornerstone of his roadmap to elevate African football to a global standard.
The visit to Kenya will provide a definitive assessment of the country’s progress in meeting CAF’s stringent hosting requirements for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
“I will personally inspect stadiums and infrastructure in Kenya ahead of this important competition,” Motsepe said. “Infrastructure development remains central to the future of African football.”
Motsepe also revealed that discussions with FIFA and other confederations are progressing well, particularly in efforts to align the global football calendar. He acknowledged concerns around fixture congestion raised by clubs and leagues, but insisted that solutions are being explored to accommodate new competitions without disrupting existing schedules.
“We are making significant progress with FIFA to align the global football calendar with Africa’s ambitions,” he said. “Fixture congestion cannot be ignored, but it should not stop Africa from growing its competitions.”
On the commercial front, the CAF president emphasised that African football must receive the financial recognition it deserves. He made it clear that partnerships will only continue if they reflect the true value of the continent’s competitions, signalling a firm stance in ongoing negotiations with potential sponsors and broadcasters.
“African football must receive the financial value it truly deserves. If our partners cannot meet our expectations, we are prepared to walk away,” he said. “Our competitions are worldclass, and they must be recognised as such globally.”
A major highlight of Motsepe’s address was the planned introduction of the African Nations League, a competition designed to increase the frequency and quality of matches across the continent. The new structure will feature both regional and continental formats, aimed at boosting competitiveness and expanding opportunities for national teams.
“We are building a new competition structure to ensure top-level football is played every year,” Motsepe said. “The African Nations League will transform the rhythm of football on this continent.”
Under the proposed system, Africa will host elite football competitions every year, bringing together top players based in Europe, North America and other parts of the world—marking a significant shift from the traditional cycle, where major tournaments were held less frequently.
“The best African players across the world will now feature regularly in competitions on home soil,” Motsepe assured.
Motsepe reiterated CAF’s commitment to delivering consistent, high-quality football on African soil, expressing confidence that the planned reforms will usher in a new era for the game across the continent.
