There are growing whispers within the ANC that senior party members are encouraging Patrice Motsepe, the president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and owner of Mamelodi Sundowns, to consider running for the party’s top leadership position ahead of the 2027 National Conference.
Motsepe’s leadership, particularly in the football world with his success at Mamelodi Sundowns and within CAF, has earned him recognition for his executive skills and visionary approach. This has fueled speculation about his potential political future.
The ANC’s internal dynamics are heating up as other key political figures, such as Deputy President Paul Mashatile and Fikile Mbalula, face scrutiny for their early political maneuvering. Amid this, sources within the party suggest that Motsepe could emerge as a major contender for the ANC presidency.
Campaign material for a potential Motsepe run is already circulating behind closed doors, with mock flyers featuring him as ANC President, Senzo Mchunu as Deputy President, and Oscar Mabuyane as Secretary-General.
While his name might surprise traditional political figures, many South Africans, especially football fans, view Motsepe as a symbol of success, integrity, and efficiency. His achievements as the owner of Mamelodi Sundowns, a club that has grown into a continental powerhouse, and his influential role in African football, position him as a potential figure of change in the political arena.
