The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has approved a series of significant decisions aimed at restructuring club and national team competitions. The decisions were made during a virtual meeting of the CAF Executive Committee, led by Dr. Patrice Motsepe. The new regulations will provide more clarity and stability for local football associations and clubs to plan their seasons. The changes are set to have a major impact on the sport in Africa.
One of the key decisions is to allow players to participate with more than one club during a season in African club competitions. This change will eliminate a significant obstacle for teams during the winter transfer window. Additionally, the maximum number of players that can be registered by a club has been increased to 40 at any time during the season. Clubs will also be allowed to replace four players during the last registration period, provided they have not participated in any African club competitions during the same season.
The CAF Executive Committee has also decided to transfer the "disciplinary matters" file from the Club Competitions Committee to the Disciplinary Committee. This move aims to ensure greater specialization and transparency in the handling of disciplinary cases. The new regulations are expected to bring about a higher level of organization and fairness in African football.
The CAF has also announced the schedule for major football events in 2026. Nigeria will host the CAF Annual Awards on December 7, 2026, in Lagos, while the Ordinary General Assembly of the CAF will take place on November 21, 2026, in the same country. These events will bring together football stakeholders from across the continent to celebrate achievements and discuss the future of the sport.
In women's football and beach soccer, the CAF has confirmed new dates for upcoming tournaments. The final stage of the 2026 Women's Champions League will take place from November 1 to 15, 2026. Senegal, the current title holder, will host the 2026 African Beach Soccer Cup of Nations from November 28 to December 6, 2026.
The new regulations and schedules adopted by the CAF are set to have a significant impact on the development of football in Africa. The changes aim to improve the organization and competitiveness of club and national team competitions, while also promoting transparency and fairness. The CAF's efforts are expected to enhance the overall quality of football on the continent.
The CAF's decisions will provide a clear framework for football associations and clubs to plan their seasons and prepare for upcoming competitions. The new regulations will come into effect in 2026 and will be implemented across all African football competitions. The CAF's commitment to developing football in Africa is evident in its efforts to improve the sport's governance, organization, and competitiveness.
Key points
- CAF allows players to participate in multiple clubs per season
- Maximum number of players that can be registered by a club increased to 40
- New dates announced for 2026 football events, including CAF Annual Awards and African Beach Soccer Cup of Nations
