CAF Reverses Decision, AFCON to Remain a Two-Year Tournament
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially reversed its decision to hold the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) every four years, confirming that the tournament will continue on a two-year cycle.
The decision was unanimously approved by CAF’s Executive Committee on Friday, overturning plans announced last December to introduce a four-year format from 2028.
The initial proposal, which aimed to make room for a new African Nations League competition in 2029, faced criticism from African football stakeholders who believed it prioritized European football interests over those of Africa.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe explained the reasoning behind the reversal.
“The decision by the CAF EXCO that the CAF AFCON should take place every two years was based on advancing, protecting and promoting the interest of African football and CAF’s 54 member associations, as well as the interest of African players employed by football clubs outside Africa,” Motsepe said in a statement.
CAF also expressed concerns about how long the proposed African Nations League would take to generate significant financial benefits. The next AFCON will take place in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda in 2027, with subsequent editions scheduled for 2028, 2031 and 2033. The scheduling also takes into consideration the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
The reversal ensures Africa’s biggest international football competition retains its traditional two-year format, despite adjustments to the upcoming tournament calendar.
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