Former Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Issa Hayatou has passed away.
Hayatou reportedly died in Paris on Thursday, August 8, 2024, just a day before what would have been his 78th birthday.
The news of his passing was shared by FIFA President Gianni Infantino through a post on his Instagram stories. Infantino expressed his sorrow, writing, “Saddened to hear of the passing of former CAF President, former FIFA President (interim), FIFA Vice President, and FIFA Council member, Issa Hayatou.
“As a passionate sports fan and IOC member, he dedicated his life to sports administration. On behalf of FIFA, condolences go to his family, friends, former colleagues, and all who knew him. Rest in peace.”
According to Cameroonian media, Hayatou had been battling a prolonged illness before his death, which occurred less than 24 hours before his 78th birthday. He served as the president of CAF for 29 years, leading the organization from 1988 until his unexpected ouster in 2017.