The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is considering reverting to a biennial Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) schedule. CAF President Patrice Motsepe confirmed that the possibility of restoring the tournament's original frequency was being studied at a strategic conference in Cape Verde on October 9. This move comes less than a year after the CAF announced its intention to switch to a quadrennial format, a decision that was met with controversy and criticism from various stakeholders.
The proposed quadrennial format, announced in December 2025, aimed to harmonize the African football calendar with the international football schedule. However, the plan faced opposition from several quarters, with concerns raised about its impact on the financial resources of football federations, the exposure of national teams, and the opportunities available to players on the continent. The Guardian reported that there were also disputes regarding the adoption process of the reform.
The CAN is a significant event in African football, serving as a sports showcase, revenue source, and deeply ingrained cultural phenomenon. The tournament's quadrennial format was seen as a threat to its status as a unifying event in African football. By potentially reverting to a biennial schedule, the CAF may be attempting to correct its course and prioritize the needs of African football.
A biennial CAN schedule would allow national teams, supporters, and federations to maintain a regular dynamic and preserve the visibility of African football. The CAF's potential change of heart has sparked debate about the place of the CAN in the international football calendar. The organization's decision will have implications for the future of African football and its stakeholders.
The CAF's executive committee will need to examine the proposal and clarify its consequences on the football calendar. The 2027 CAN is currently scheduled to take place in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda from June 19 to July 17. The CAF's willingness to reconsider its previous decision may indicate a desire to prioritize the needs of African football over external pressures.
The CAF's reform efforts have been closely watched by the football community, with various stakeholders weighing in on the proposed changes. The organization's commitment to finding a solution that benefits African football will be crucial in determining the future of the CAN. A decision on the tournament's schedule is expected in the coming months.
The Guinean Press Agency reported on October 9 that the CAF's strategic conference was attended by various stakeholders, including football officials and experts. The conference provided a platform for discussions on the future of African football and the CAF's role in shaping the sport on the continent. The outcome of these discussions will likely have a significant impact on the future of the CAN and African football as a whole.
Key points
- The CAF is considering reverting to a biennial Africa Cup of Nations schedule, a move that could prioritize the needs of African football.
