Issa Hayatou, the former president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and a towering figure in African football, has passed away at the age of 77. The Cameroonian football administrator died in Paris on Thursday, August 8, 2024, just one day before his 78th birthday.
Born on August 9, 1946, in Garoua, Cameroon, Hayatou dedicated his life to the development and promotion of football across the African continent. His passing marks the end of an era for African football, as he was instrumental in shaping the sport’s landscape during his nearly three-decade tenure as CAF president, from 1988 to 2017.
“We have lost a great leader, a man who dedicated his life to the growth of football in Africa. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we move forward in our mission to develop the sport on the continent,” a CAF spokesperson said, as quoted by Cameroon Concord.
A Legacy of African Football Excellence
Under Hayatou’s leadership, Africa saw its representation at the FIFA World Cup increase from two to five slots, a significant achievement that gave the continent greater visibility on the global stage. His efforts culminated in South Africa becoming the first African nation to host the FIFA World Cup in 2010, a historic milestone that remains a point of pride for the entire continent.
Beyond CAF, Hayatou held significant influence within the global football community. He served as FIFA’s senior vice president under the leadership of three different presidents—Joao Havelange, Sepp Blatter, and Gianni Infantino. In 2015, he briefly stepped in as the interim president of FIFA following Sepp Blatter’s suspension amid a bribery scandal, steering the organization through a turbulent period.
In recognition of his contributions to sports, Hayatou was appointed as an Honorary Member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 2017, a role he held until his death.
Tributes Pour In
Following the news of his passing, tributes have poured in from all corners of the globe. Sports journalists, football clubs, and officials from various organizations took to social media to express their condolences and reflect on Hayatou’s lasting impact on football in Africa and beyond.
Hayatou’s death leaves a void in the world of sports, but his legacy as a trailblazer for African football will continue to inspire future generations. His work not only elevated the status of African football but also laid the groundwork for the continent’s continued growth and success in the sport.
As the football world mourns the loss of this legendary figure, Issa Hayatou’s contributions to the game will forever be remembered.
