The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has reversed its decision to stage the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) every four years, instead returning to the traditional biennial schedule. This decision was announced on Thursday, October 29, and marks a significant U-turn from the plan unveiled last year. The change was made due to concerns over the financial viability of the proposed Africa Nations League, which was set to replace AFCON.
CAF president Patrice Motsepe stated that the decision was made in the interests of African football, its 54 member associations, and players employed by clubs outside the continent. The proposed Africa Nations League would have taken several years to become financially viable and generate the revenue needed to support the development of African football. Motsepe emphasized that the reversal was necessary to ensure the growth and competitiveness of African football.
The return to a biennial schedule may reignite concerns among European clubs and other teams outside Africa, which regularly release key players for international duty during AFCON. Under the previous arrangement, clubs would have faced losing their African players to the continental tournament once every four years rather than every two years. This change may impact the schedules of various clubs and leagues worldwide.
The revised calendar confirms a busy period for African football, particularly for East Africa. The next AFCON will take place in 2027, jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Subsequent editions are scheduled for 2028, 2031, and 2033. The three-year gap between the 2028 and 2031 tournaments is intended to avoid a clash with the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
According to Motsepe, the 2030 FIFA World Cup will take place in a year when other Confederations National Teams competitions, including AFCON, may not be held. This tradition has been followed in the past, and CAF aims to adhere to it. The organization is working to ensure that African football competitions do not conflict with international events.
The decision to revert to a biennial schedule for AFCON has significant implications for African football. The tournament has a rich history and is a premier event in the African football calendar. CAF's decision aims to promote the growth and development of football on the continent, while also considering the interests of various stakeholders, including clubs and leagues.
The Africa Cup of Nations has been a cornerstone of African football, bringing together top teams and players from across the continent. The tournament's return to a biennial schedule is expected to generate excitement and interest among fans, sponsors, and stakeholders. CAF's decision will be closely watched by the football community, as it aims to balance the interests of various parties involved.
Key points
- CAF reverses decision to hold AFCON every four years, returning to biennial schedule
- Decision made due to concerns over financial viability of proposed Africa Nations League
- Next AFCON to be held in 2027, jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda
