Former CAF President Issa Hayatou Passes Away at 77

Paris, France – August 8, 2024

Issa Hayatou, the former President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), has died at the age of 77.

Hayatou, a legendary figure in African football, passed away in Paris on Thursday, just one day shy of his 78th birthday.

Issa Hayatou’s Legacy in African Football

Born on August 9, 1946, in Garoua, Cameroon, Hayatou served as President of the apex governing body of African football for an unprecedented 29 years, from 1988 to 2017. During his tenure, he played a crucial role in increasing Africa’s slots at the FIFA World Cup from two to five. He also oversaw the historic hosting of the World Cup in South Africa in 2010, a first for an African nation.

Hayatou’s passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from across the globe. Sports journalists and fans throughout Africa have taken to social media to express their condolences and celebrate his significant impact on the sport.

Despite losing the CAF presidential election to Ahmad Ahmad of Madagascar in 2017, Hayatou’s legacy as the longest-serving President of the African football governing body remains unparalleled. His contributions to African football will be remembered for generations to come.