Issa Hayatou, the former President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and a one-time acting President of FIFA, passed away today in Paris at the age of 77.

Hayatou had a long and complex career in football administration, serving as CAF President from 1988 to 2017.

During his tenure, he oversaw significant growth and development in African football, including the expansion of the Africa Cup of Nations and the introduction of new competitions.

In addition to his role at CAF, Hayatou also served as a member of the FIFA Executive Committee and acted as FIFA President on a temporary basis in 2015, following the suspension of Sepp Blatter.

However, Hayatou’s career was not without controversy. He was ousted as CAF President in 2017 by Madagascar’s Ahmad Ahmad, who ran on a platform of reform and transparency.

Hayatou’s ouster was seen by many as a significant shift in the power dynamics of African football, and marked the end of an era for the continent’s football governance.

Despite his controversial departure from CAF, Hayatou’s legacy in African football remains significant. He played a key role in growing the sport on the continent and increasing its global influence.

Tributes have begun pouring in from the football community, with many praising Hayatou’s leadership and contributions to the sport.

Funeral arrangements have not been announced yet.