The Confederation of African Football has unveiled major reforms to its statutes and regulatory framework, aimed at rebuilding trust in refereeing, VAR operations, and its judicial system.
The decision comes in response to the controversies that surrounded the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, which CAF acknowledged exposed gaps in governance and accountability.
In an official statement, the organisation reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening transparency and professionalism across its officiating and disciplinary bodies.
“CAF will continue with the procedure and practice of appointing the best and most respected African judges and lawyers to the CAF Disciplinary Board and Appeal Board.
“These judges and lawyers are appointed by the CAF EXCO and the CAF Ordinary General Assembly from the names proposed and recommended by 54 CAF Member Associations and Zonal Unions. The independence and impartiality of the CAF Judicial Bodies is imperative.”
CAF President Patrice Motsepe explained that the reforms were shaped through consultations with top legal and football experts.
“CAF is currently implementing far-reaching changes and improvements to the CAF Statutes and Regulations, which will strengthen the trust and confidence in CAF Referees, VAR Operators, Match Commissioners, and in the CAF Disciplinary Board and Appeal Board. These changes and improvements will also ensure that the unacceptable incidences that took place at the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025 do not happen again.”
Motsepe further disclosed that CAF is collaborating with FIFA to improve training and raise standards across officiating roles.
“CAF is working with FIFA for the ongoing training of African Referees, VAR Operators, and Match Commissioners so that they are as good as the best in the world. We must also professionalise African Referees and VAR Operators and pay them well.”
He also emphasised CAF’s commitment to fairness and integrity within its operations.
“The independence and impartiality of the CAF Judicial Bodies is imperative. Our commitment to zero tolerance for corruption and improper behaviour has been recognised and rewarded by the numerous sponsors and partners that we have gained.
“What is also non-negotiable is our commitment and determination to treat each and every Member Association equally and fairly. Under no circumstances will any Member Association be treated preferentially or favoured above any other.”
CAF added that matters relating to the Morocco 2025 AFCON final are currently being handled by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, while the organisation continues to focus on ongoing competitions and preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.