Luxolo September, Head of TV and Media Communications at the Confederation of African Football (CAF), has come to the defense of CAF President Patrice Motsepe amid mounting criticism over the handling of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.
The controversy stems from CAF’s Appeal Board decision to award Morocco the 2025 AFCON title after Senegal temporarily walked off the pitch in protest of a penalty call.
Although Senegal returned to play and won 1-0 in extra time, the West African nation has signaled its intention to appeal the ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Critics have questioned Motsepe’s integrity in the decision, with accusations of corruption circulating across social media and sports platforms. Speaking to African football analyst Micky Jnr, September firmly dismissed these claims.
“No one can buy Motsepe. He donated $10 million USD to CAF and hasn’t taken a cent from CAF or FIFA. People have this lazy stereotype about Africans being corrupt. When they say Dr Patrice Motsepe is ‘bought,’ I ask: ‘By who? For how much?’ It’s laughable,” he said.
“For 6 years, he’s not taken a single cent. CAF doesn’t pay for his travel, accommodation, or salary. Who can buy him? How can he be bought? We should have confidence that some leaders are incorruptible. He’s probably the only football leader today who doesn’t take a cent from football,” September added.
