Issa Hayatou, a towering figure in African football, passed away in Paris on Thursday following a prolonged illness.
Born in Garoua, Cameroon, in 1946, Hayatou’s influence on the sport was profound and enduring.
A former athlete himself, he went on to serve as the President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for nearly three decades, from 1988 until March 2017.
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Under his leadership, African football saw unprecedented growth. The Africa Cup of Nations was expanded, the continent secured additional spots in the FIFA World Cup, and significant investments were made in football infrastructure across Africa.
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Hayatou’s vision and efforts were instrumental in elevating the sport on the continent to new heights.
In 2015, Hayatou also briefly held the position of interim president of FIFA, stepping in during a turbulent period for the global football body after the suspension of Sepp Blatter.
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News of his passing has led to an outpouring of tributes from across the world. Figures from both within and outside the football community have acknowledged his pivotal role in transforming African football and ensuring its place on the global stage.
Hayatou’s legacy, marked by his dedication and passion for the sport, will continue to inspire future generations.
