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Tarek Bouchamaoui Celebrates Issa Hayatou’s Contributions to African Football
The world of African football, and football at large, is enveloped in deep sorrow today as it mourns the passing of one of its most influential figures, Issa Hayatou.
Tarek Bouchamaoui, former member of the CAF and FIFA Executive Committees, and a close advisor to the late President Hayatou has expressed profound grief over the loss of the legendary leader.
“Football will be secondary today,” Bouchamaoui stated, reflecting the collective sentiment of the global football community.
“All fans of African football—and football in general—are in mourning.”
Bouchamaoui’s tribute recounted the profound impact President Hayatou had on African football.
“I will always remember the unfailing friendship and fraternity that bound us together. You were not just a great leader, but also the emblematic president of the most illustrious body in African football. Your strategic vision and leadership were major assets in developing football, popularizing it, and giving it an unprecedented sporting and financial base,” he continued.
Hayatou’s legacy as a visionary leader is etched in the hearts of many who witnessed his tireless efforts to elevate the sport.
“I have always appreciated your values, your human qualities, and your unwavering passion for developing football. Your ability to inspire and motivate those around you was palpable. Your loss is a blow to the world of football, but your legacy will live on.”
In his message, Bouchamaoui also emphasized the values that Hayatou embodied—friendship, honesty, ethics, integrity, and a deep dedication to the African continent.
“You were a man of great values. Your integrity and dedication to the whole of the African continent left an indelible mark on those who worked with you.”
As the football world grapples with this significant loss, Bouchamaoui extended his heartfelt condolences to Hayatou’s family, friends, and the broader football community.
“At this difficult time, my thoughts are with your family, your friends, and the entire football community, who mourn the loss of a true leader. I send my most sincere condolences to your family and friends, to all CAF bodies and all the African football federations, and to all those involved in amateur and professional football throughout the world.”
The passing of Issa Hayatou marks the end of an era for African football, but his contributions will forever be remembered and cherished by those who knew him and those who benefited from his leadership.
