The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has reportedly decided to revert to the traditional two-year cycle for the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN), according to information published on October 30, 2026. The CAF Executive Committee, which met on October 29, 2026, allegedly approved the change with unanimous consent. This move marks a reversal of a previously announced reform that would have seen the CAN take place every four years starting from the 2028 edition.
The newly approved calendar maintains the 2027 edition of the CAN, which is set to be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. An edition is also scheduled for 2028, with subsequent editions planned for 2031, 2033, and 2035. This change will see the CAN return to its historical biennial rhythm, a move that could have significant implications for the organization of international football competitions and the scheduling of club and national team events.
The initial reform aimed to address the increasingly crowded international football calendar, with multiple competitions and tournaments taking place every year. However, the decision to revert to a biennial CAN has raised questions about the availability of players from clubs abroad and the potential strain on the football calendar. The CAF's decision may also impact the planning and preparation of national teams and clubs participating in the competition.
The reinstatement of the biennial CAN could be seen as a victory for African football stakeholders who value the tradition and history of the competition. The CAN has been a cornerstone of African football since its inception, and reverting to its traditional cycle may help to preserve the competition's integrity and appeal. However, the long-term implications of this decision remain to be seen.
The CAF's decision is also likely to have significant implications for the football calendar in Africa and beyond. With the CAN taking place every two years, clubs and national teams will need to adapt their schedules accordingly. This may involve changes to domestic league schedules, international friendlies, and other competitions.
While the CAF has reportedly approved the change, the final details of the new calendar and the scope of the decision have yet to be officially confirmed. A formal announcement from the CAF is expected in the coming days or weeks, which will provide clarity on the future of the CAN and its place in the African football calendar.
The future of African football is likely to be shaped by this decision, with potential impacts on the sport's development, competitiveness, and popularity across the continent. As the CAN continues to be a major event in the African football calendar, its biennial cycle will be closely watched by fans, players, and stakeholders alike.
Key points
- The CAF has decided to revert to the traditional two-year cycle for the Africa Cup of Nations.
- The 2027 edition of the CAN will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
- The decision may have significant implications for the organization of international football competitions and the scheduling of club and national team events.
