The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has reversed its decision to stage the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) every four years, restoring the competition's traditional two-year format. This decision was unanimously approved by CAF's Executive Committee on Thursday, October 29, 2026. The reversal comes after concerns were raised that the proposed replacement competition, the Africa Nations League, would take several years to become financially viable.
CAF President, Patrice Motsepe, announced the reversal after the organisation's Strategy Conference in Cabo Verde. He explained that the decision was taken to protect the interests of African football, the confederation's 54 member associations, and African players employed by football clubs outside the continent. The proposed Africa Nations League was expected to mirror the existing AFCON format but would require several years to generate substantial financial resources.
In December 2025, CAF had announced plans to move AFCON to a four-year cycle from 2028, with the proposed Africa Nations League expected to take over as the continent's biennial national-team competition. However, the governing body has now abandoned the arrangement, citing concerns about the time required for the proposed league to generate substantial financial resources and contribute meaningfully to football development across Africa.
According to 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. The unusual three-year gap between the 2028 and 2031 tournaments is intended to prevent a clash with the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Motsepe explained that CAF would not organise its flagship national-team competition during a FIFA World Cup year.
The decision marks a significant policy reversal for CAF and comes amid continuing discussions about the financial sustainability of African football competitions and the challenges of balancing international and European club football schedules. The four-year proposal had been intended to align AFCON more closely with the schedules of major international continental competitions, including the European Championship and Copa América.
Restoring the biennial format means African national teams will continue to compete for the continent's most prestigious football trophy every two years, except where the calendar requires adjustments. The reversal is also expected to provide continued commercial opportunities for CAF and its 54 member associations, which benefit from revenue generated through broadcasting, sponsorships, and tournament-related activities.
Expressing confidence in the next edition, Motsepe said he expected Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda to successfully organise the 2027 tournament. He also described AFCON as more than a football competition, highlighting its importance in promoting African culture, unity, and international recognition. With the decision now officially confirmed, African football fans can look forward to the next editions in 2027 and 2028, followed by the 2031 and 2033 tournaments.
Key points
- CAF has restored the Africa Cup of Nations to its traditional two-year format.
- The next AFCON will take place in 2027, jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
- The decision is expected to provide continued commercial opportunities for CAF and its 54 member associations.
