The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has abandoned plans to hold the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) every four years, returning the tournament to its usual two-year schedule.
CAF’s Executive Committee unanimously approved the decision on Thursday, October 29, after months of discussions about the competition’s future.
In a statement released on its website, CAF President Patrice Motsepe explained that keeping the two-year format would protect the interests of African football, its 54 member associations and African players who play for clubs outside the continent.
“The decision by the CAF EXCO that the CAF AFCON should take place every Two Years was based on advancing, protecting and promoting the interest of African Football and CAF’s 54 Member Associations, as well as the interest of African players employed by Football Clubs outside Africa,” he said.
Motsepe also raised concerns about how long the proposed Africa Nations League would take to deliver the expected financial and development benefits.
He explained that the new competition was designed to follow the AFCON format and take place every two years, but would not provide the needed support for African football in the short term.
The next AFCON will hold in 2027, with Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda set to host the competition jointly.
Motsepe expressed confidence in the three countries’ ability to organise a successful tournament.
He also described AFCON as a platform for celebrating African football, culture and traditions while bringing people together.
“The AFCON competition is also about celebrating African Football and Africa’s rich and diverse cultures, customs and traditions and bringing people together from Africa’s 54 Countries, the African Diaspora and throughout the world,” he said.
“The CAF EXCO decision is in the best interest of African Football and CAF’s 54 Member Associations and will also contribute significantly to the development and growth of football in Africa,” he added.
