UEFA and CAF Sign MoU to Expand Football Collaboration in Europe and Africa

The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) and the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) have formalized an expanded partnership to foster the growth and development of football across Europe and Africa.

The agreement was established through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on April 29, 2026, in Vancouver, Canada, by UEFA President Mr Aleksander Čeferin and CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe.

The MoU outlines a joint commitment to solidarity, integrity, and openness, while emphasizing the capacity of football to promote social cohesion, participation, and inclusion.

The collaboration focuses on several key pillars of sporting and institutional growth, including the development of youth and women’s football. The partnership also prioritizes the education and training of referees and coaches, alongside the enhancement of institutional development and governance.

CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe noted that African football has seen significant growth in recent years as the organization works to make the region some of the best in the world. He stated that the MoU strengthens the historic friendship and ties between Africa and Europe, which has already been evidenced by the success of African players within European leagues.

This partnership with UEFA includes youth and women’s football, development, the education and training of coaches and referees, the enhancement of governance and institutional development. It also reflects CAF and UEFA’s shared vision of using football as a tool to bring together and unite the people of our two Continents.

Dr Patrice Motsepe

Dr Motsepe added that by combining resources and expertise, the two organizations intend to ensure that football serves as a source of unity, joy, and hope for millions of people globally.

UEFA President Mr Aleksander Čeferin highlighted the importance of the game within society, noting that both Europe and Africa possess extraordinary football landscapes where the sport plays a vital role both on the pitch and within the broader community.