The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced that the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) will continue to be held every two years, reversing a previous decision to switch to a quadrennial tournament. This decision was made on October 29, according to CAF president Dr. Patrice Motsepe. The CAN has been held biennially since its inception in 1957, with the exception of a brief period when it was held every three years.
The decision to revert to a biennial CAN was made to protect and promote the interests of African football and its 50 member associations, as well as the players who compete in clubs outside the continent. This move is seen as a way to prioritize African football and its stakeholders over external interests. The previous decision to switch to a quadrennial tournament was made in December 2025, with the aim of satisfying FIFA and European clubs.
The quadrennial format was met with widespread criticism from African federations, players, and supporters. The proposed replacement for the CAN, the League of Nations, was also met with skepticism. Many saw the move as an attempt to appease FIFA and European clubs, rather than prioritizing African football. The League of Nations was expected to take several years to generate substantial revenue.
According to Dr. Motsepe, the CAN generates significant revenue through TV rights, ticket sales, sponsorships, and partnerships. The tournament is a major source of income for CAF, and reverting to a biennial format is expected to maintain this revenue stream. The next CAN is scheduled to take place from June 19 to July 17 in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
The decision to revert to a biennial CAN is seen as a victory for African football stakeholders who opposed the switch to a quadrennial format. CAF's decision is expected to have significant implications for the future of African football, including the scheduling of future tournaments and the financial sustainability of the organization.
CAF's president, Dr. Patrice Motsepe, emphasized that the decision to revert to a biennial CAN was made with the best interests of African football in mind. He stated that the organization is committed to promoting and protecting African football, and that the CAN is a vital part of this effort.
The Africa Cup of Nations is one of the most prestigious tournaments in African football, and its biennial format is expected to continue. The tournament has a rich history, dating back to 1957, and its continued success is seen as crucial to the development of African football.
Key points
- CAF reverts to biennial Africa Cup of Nations due to financial considerations.
- The decision was made to prioritize African football and its stakeholders.
- The next CAN is scheduled to take place in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
