Issa Hayatou, a prominent figure in African football, passed away on August 8, 2024, just one day before his 78th birthday. A Cameroonian sports administrator, Hayatou was at the helm of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for nearly three decades, from 1988 to 2017.

Under his leadership, African football underwent a significant transformation. One of Hayatou’s most remarkable achievements was increasing the number of African teams that qualified for the FIFA World Cup. When he began his tenure, only two teams from Africa were making it to the World Cup. By the time he left office, that number had grown to five, giving the continent greater representation on the global stage.

Perhaps the most memorable moment in his career was securing the 2010 FIFA World Cup for South Africa. This was a historic event, as it marked the first time an African nation hosted the tournament. Hayatou’s efforts were instrumental in making this a reality, and it remains a proud moment in African sports history.

Issa Hayatou’s influence extended beyond CAF. He served as FIFA’s senior vice president multiple times and even stepped in as interim president during a challenging period for the organization. His contributions were also recognized by the International Olympic Committee, where he held an honorary membership.

CAF and many others across the football community have expressed deep sorrow over his passing. They remember him as a “great leader” who dedicated his life to advancing football in Africa. While his leadership was not without controversy, his impact on the sport, particularly in Africa, is undeniable.

Hayatou’s legacy as a pioneer of African football will be remembered for generations. His work laid the foundation for the continued growth and success of the sport across the continent.