In a glittering ceremony at the TotalEnergies offices in Johannesburg, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) officially unveiled the fifth iteration of the prestigious CAF Champions League trophy, a sleek and modern masterpiece that symbolizes the pinnacle of African club football.
The unveiling, attended by football dignitaries, sponsors, and media, marked a significant moment for the continent’s premier club competition, with the new trophy set to be hoisted by either South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns or Egypt’s Pyramids FC in the upcoming two-legged final.
The redesigned trophy, crafted with intricate details and a contemporary aesthetic, retains the iconic silhouette of its predecessors while introducing bold elements that reflect Africa’s vibrant football culture.
Standing taller and more radiant than ever, the silverware gleams with a polished finish, adorned with subtle engravings that pay homage to the continent’s diverse heritage.
CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe, who presided over the unveiling, described the trophy as “a symbol of excellence, unity, and the unrelenting passion of African football.”
The timing of the reveal adds an extra layer of excitement to the highly anticipated final. Mamelodi Sundowns, the 2016 champions, will face off against Pyramids FC, a rising force in Egyptian football, in a two-legged showdown that promises to be a clash of titans.
The first leg is scheduled to take place in Cairo, with the return leg in Pretoria, where one team will etch their name in history as the first to lift this newly minted trophy.
“This is more than just a trophy,” said CAF’s Director of Competitions, Samson Adamu. “It represents the dreams of millions of fans and the hard work of players, coaches, and clubs across Africa. The winner of this final will carry the weight of that legacy.”
To celebrate the occasion, CAF announced that the trophy will embark on a media tour across Johannesburg on Thursday and Friday, visiting major broadcasters and newsrooms to give fans a closer look at the coveted prize.
Mamelodi Sundowns, known for their attacking flair and tactical discipline under coach Rhulani Mokwena, are favored by many to add another chapter to their storied history.
Meanwhile, Pyramids FC, backed by significant investment and a talented squad, are determined to claim their first-ever Champions League title and upset the South African giants.
As the countdown to the final begins, the new trophy has added an extra layer of intrigue to an already thrilling contest.
