CAF president Patrice Motsepe has cautioned South Africa’s Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie to stay within FIFA’s strict rules on government interference while seeking accountability from the South African Football Association (SAFA).
McKenzie has demanded answers after Bafana Bafana were docked three points for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. He has reportedly given SAFA seven days to submit a full report on the error.
Speaking at a gala dinner in Johannesburg, Motsepe said he trusts that McKenzie will engage FIFA “within strict parameters” and that any issues will be resolved amicably. He stressed that while governments and football bodies must cooperate, direct interference in football affairs remains prohibited under FIFA rules.
It’s understood McKenzie has already written to FIFA president Gianni Infantino, apologising for the administrative mistake and assuring him that his actions are not an attempt to interfere in SAFA’s governance.