AFCON to be Played Every Two Years Again as CAF Reverses Four-Year Plan

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Executive Committee unanimously decided on Thursday to return the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to its traditional two-year cycle.

The decision follows an announcement by CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe during the CAF Strategic Conference in Cape Verde earlier this month.

At the event, held from 7–9 October 2026, Motsepe indicated that the committee would review last year’s structural change, which had moved the flagship tournament to a quadrennial (four-year) cycle.

Financial Concerns Shift Strategy

The swift reversal stems from financial realities surrounding the proposed African Nations League. The new biennial competition was intended to replace the traditional AFCON format.

However, forecasts revealed that the Nations League would require several years to generate the substantial revenue needed to keep African football globally competitive and financially self-sufficient.

“The decision by the CAF Executive Committee to reinstate the organization of AFCON every two years is aimed at advancing, protecting, and promoting the interests of African football, its 54 member associations, and African players competing in clubs outside the continent,” Dr Motsepe said in a statement.

“We were concerned about the number of years it would take for the proposed Nations League to bring in the substantial financial contributions required for development,” Motsepe added, noting the ultimate goal remains making CAF competitions globally competitive and autonomous.

Upcoming Tournament Roadmap

With the tournament restored to its regular frequency, the upcoming hosting schedule has been clarified. The next edition of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations will take place in 2027, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

Following the 2027 tournament, subsequent editions are now locked in for 2028, 2031, and 2033.

Notably, no tournament is scheduled for 2030. In alignment with FIFA traditions, continental tournaments will pause during FIFA World Cup years to avoid scheduling conflicts and player fatigue.

Dr Motsepe concluded by emphasizing the cultural impact of the biennial event. “AFCON is a celebration of African football and the richness and diversity of our continent’s cultures. It brings together people from 54 African countries, the diaspora, and the world.

This decision serves the best interests of African football and will significantly contribute to its growth.”