The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced that the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will return to its traditional two-year cycle. This decision was made by the CAF Executive Committee, led by President Patrice Motsepe, during the organisation's Strategy Conference in Cabo Verde from October 7 to 9, 2026. The reversal comes after a review of CAF's earlier plan to move AFCON to a four-year schedule and introduce an Africa Nations League.
CAF's decision to stage AFCON every two years was unanimously approved by its Executive Committee. According to Motsepe, the decision was made in the interest of African football, CAF's 54 member associations, and African players playing for clubs outside the continent. The proposed Africa Nations League would have taken several years to generate the required financial resources and football development benefits.
The Africa Nations League was intended to mirror the existing AFCON format and take place every two years. However, CAF was concerned that it would not provide the required support for African football in the immediate future. As a result, the organisation decided to retain the two-year AFCON cycle. Motsepe stated that this decision would advance, protect, and promote the interest of African football.
Under the revised calendar, the next AFCON will take place in 2027, jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The subsequent editions are scheduled for 2028, 2031, and 2033. CAF maintains that the competition will not be staged in a FIFA World Cup year. Motsepe expressed confidence in the three East African countries' ability to deliver a successful tournament.
Motsepe described AFCON as more than a football competition, saying it provides an opportunity to celebrate Africa's cultures and bring people together from across the continent and the diaspora. He added that the competition is about celebrating African football and Africa's rich and diverse cultures, customs, and traditions.
The decision to retain the two-year AFCON cycle is expected to contribute significantly to the development and growth of football in Africa. CAF's President stated that the decision was made in the best interest of African football and CAF's 54 member associations. The organisation aims to promote African football and make its competitions globally competitive.
The 2027 AFCON tournament is expected to be a significant event, showcasing African football and culture. With Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda hosting the competition, CAF is optimistic about the success of the tournament. The return to a two-year cycle is seen as a positive step for African football, providing opportunities for growth and development.
Key points
- CAF reverses decision to hold AFCON every four years, returning to two-year cycle.
- Next AFCON to be held in 2027, jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
- Decision aims to promote African football, celebrate African culture, and contribute to the growth of the sport.
