In a surprising move, the CAF has decided to restore the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) to its previous biennial schedule, reversing a decision made in December 2025 to hold the tournament every four years. The decision was made unanimously by the CAF's executive committee, according to a statement released by the organization. The change was made to protect and promote the interests of African football and its 54 member associations.
The CAF's president, Patrice Motsepe, justified the reversal, citing concerns about the financial implications of switching to a four-year cycle. He stated that more time is needed to ensure that the new pan-African competition, the League of Nations, can provide substantial financial contributions and benefits for African football development. The League of Nations was designed to be similar to the CAN and was initially set to be held every two years.
The decision to restore the CAN to its biennial schedule has likely been influenced by pressure from the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), as well as criticism from African footballers and specialists who opposed the initial change. The CAF's swift reversal suggests that the organization may have acted hastily in its previous decision to abandon the biennial CAN.
According to Motsepe, the next CAN will take place in 2027, hosted jointly by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. This development will put an end to speculation about a potential change in the tournament's location. The CAF president expressed confidence that the 2027 CAN will be a success, with future editions scheduled for 2028, 2031, and 2033.
The CAN has a significant following in Africa and is one of the continent's premier sporting events. The tournament has been held biennially since its inception, with the exception of 2019 when it was moved to June and July to avoid conflicting with the African Nations Championship. The CAF's decision to restore the CAN to its previous schedule will likely be welcomed by fans and stakeholders across the continent.
The CAF's change of heart has also been seen as a move to address concerns about the potential impact on African footballers who play for clubs outside the continent. By maintaining the biennial schedule, the CAF aims to ensure that African footballers continue to have opportunities to compete at the highest level.
The decision to restore the CAN to its biennial schedule marks a significant development in African football. With the 2027 CAN already scheduled, attention will now turn to the tournament's preparation and the CAF's efforts to promote and develop African football.
Key points
- The CAF has restored the Africa Cup of Nations to its biennial schedule, reversing a previous decision to hold the tournament every four years.
- The decision was made to protect and promote the interests of African football and its 54 member associations.
- The next CAN will take place in 2027, hosted jointly by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
