AFCON: Visa signs payment partnership with CAF

Visa has signed a strategic partnership with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as the exclusive digital payment provider for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Cote d’Ivoire from January 13 to February 11 2024.

The partnership will then span two tournaments – including the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in 2024 and the Men’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 both of which will be hosted by Morocco – underscoring Visa’s legacy of empowering athletes and building a more inclusive world through sport.

As the exclusive digital payment provider for the tournament, Visa will bring its payment technology to customers and connect African football’s most passionate and engaged audiences through unique and unforgettable experiences during the tournament.

Visa will also launch its Player Escort Program for the tournament, offering children between the ages of 8 and 12 a lifetime opportunity to walk alongside their favourite players on the pitch before the games.

The 2023 AFCON will feature 24 teams playing 52 matches across six stadiums, with Visa providing its digital payment technology at all venues and for in-person and online tickets.

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“The Africa Cup of Nations is one of the largest and most-loved football tournaments globally, with millions of fans tuning in from around the world to watch Africa’s best teams and players,” says Aida Diarra, Senior Vice President and Head of Sub-Saharan Africa at Visa

“Our partnership with CAF and the upcoming tournament in Cote d’Ivoire provides a platform for us to enhance the overall fan experience and further connect with our clients, partners, consumers and the communities in which we do business. We are looking forward to bringing new unique payment and fan experiences that will make the tournament truly memorable for fans everywhere.”

CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe said: “We welcome VISA, a reputable and established global brand to the African Football Family.

This partnership will increase the popularity and attractiveness of CAF Competitions amongst football fans and spectators in Africa and worldwide. The 2021 AFCON in Cameroon was watched by more than 600 million people in approximately 180 Countries in Africa and Worldwide.

We are confident that the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire will unite and engage more football fans and spectators. We are also delighted that VISA shares our commitment to invest, develop and grow Schools Football for Boys and Girls and Women’s Football on the African Continent.”