CAF: “He’s afraid of being thrown out like a nobody,” Motsepe’s “diversions” denounced

The CAF executive committee unanimously voted to return the Africa Cup of Nations to a biennial schedule, less than a year after Patrice Motsepe announced a four-year cycle. The CAF president attributed the reversal to the inability of a substitute competition to generate comparable revenue, but journalist Philippe Doucet accused him of political maneuvering and seeking to divert attention. Doucet argued that the original change was meant to please FIFA president Gianni Infantino and European clubs, while the return to a two-year cycle could help Motsepe manage his departure as his leadership faces criticism and the 2027 East African tournament is in doubt. Motsepe has said he will not seek another CAF term in 2029 and has denied interest in becoming South Africa’s president.