The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially rescinded its decision to hold the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) every four years, instead opting to return to the traditional biennial rhythm. This decision was made during the CAF Executive Committee meeting on October 29, 2026. The committee, led by President Patrice Motsepe, voted unanimously to revert to the previous schedule.
The initial decision to change the CAN schedule was announced during the CAF Strategic Conference in Cape Verde from October 7-9, 2026. However, the committee has now decided that the tournament will continue to be held every two years. This change is attributed to the uncertainty surrounding the implementation of the new African League of Nations, which was intended to replace the CAN.
According to Patrice Motsepe, the decision to reinstate the biennial CAN was made to protect and promote the interests of African football. The president emphasized that this move aims to advance the development of football on the continent and ensure the financial stability of the CAF. The African League of Nations, which was proposed as a replacement for the CAN, would have taken several years to generate substantial financial resources.
The next edition of the CAN is scheduled to take place in 2027, hosted jointly by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Subsequent editions are planned for 2028, 2031, and 2033. The CAF will need to coordinate the tournament schedule with other major international competitions, including the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
The decision to hold the CAN every two years has been welcomed by football fans on the continent. Patrice Motsepe expressed confidence that the 2027 edition will be a success. The CAF president believes that this decision will contribute significantly to the growth and development of football in Africa.
The reinstatement of the biennial CAN has ensured the continuity of the continent's flagship competition. This move is expected to preserve the sporting and economic interests of African football. The CAF has prioritized the CAN, which is a major event in the African football calendar.
The future of African football looks promising, with the CAN set to continue its biennial rhythm. The CAF has taken a significant step in promoting the development of football on the continent. The 2027 edition of the CAN is expected to be a major milestone in the history of African football.
Key points
- The CAF has decided to hold the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) every two years, reversing its previous decision to hold the tournament every four years.
- The decision was made to protect and promote the interests of African football, ensuring the financial stability of the CAF.
- The next edition of the CAN is scheduled to take place in 2027, hosted jointly by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
