The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is embroiled in controversy following the announcement of a $1 billion partnership with the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF). The deal, signed in late 2025, has drawn criticism from other member associations and governance experts who question its transparency and potential to create conflicts of interest.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe has defended the agreement, stating it will fund infrastructure and development projects across the continent. However, critics argue the deal overly centralizes commercial and footballing power with Morocco, which is set to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal. The FRMF, led by Fouzi Lekjaa, is a major financial contributor to CAF.
Reports from African sports media indicate growing discontent among other national federations, who feel sidelined by the arrangement. The controversy highlights ongoing governance challenges within CAF, which has faced corruption scandals in the past. Motsepe, elected in 2021 on a reform platform, now faces pressure to provide more details on how the funds will be distributed and managed equitably.
