The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has reversed its plan to hold the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) every four years.
The organisation has confirmed that the tournament will return to its traditional two-year schedule.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe announced the decision after the organisation’s Strategy Conference in Cabo Verde. The meeting took place from October 7 to 9, 2026.
The CAF Executive Committee unanimously approved the change. The decision followed a review of the earlier plan to introduce a four-year AFCON cycle and launch a biennial Africa Nations League.
Why CAF Reversed Its AFCON Decision
CAF said the proposed Africa Nations League would take several years to deliver the expected financial and football development benefits.
The organisation had hoped the new competition would help make African football more competitive worldwide. It was also expected to create more financial opportunities for the continent.
However, CAF concluded that the Nations League would not provide the support needed in the immediate future.
In a statement published on its website, Motsepe said the decision was made to protect the interests of African football.
He also highlighted the importance of CAF’s 54 member associations and African players who play for clubs outside the continent.
According to the CAF president, keeping AFCON on a two-year schedule would better serve these interests.
New AFCON Schedule from 2027
Under the revised calendar, the next Africa Cup of Nations will take place in 2027.
Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda will jointly host the tournament. It will mark a major event for East African football.
The subsequent editions are scheduled for 2028, 2031 and 2033.
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CAF has also maintained that AFCON will not take place in a year when the FIFA World Cup is held.
Motsepe expressed confidence in the three host nations, said he believed they could deliver a successful tournament in 2027.
Motsepe Says AFCON Is More Than Football
The CAF president also stressed the cultural importance of the competition.
He said AFCON provides an opportunity to celebrate Africa’s football heritage, cultures and traditions. It also brings together people from across the continent and the African diaspora.
Motsepe added that the decision would support the growth of football across Africa.
He said retaining the two-year format was in the best interest of the continent’s football community and CAF’s 54 member associations.
The return to the traditional schedule means African football fans can continue to expect AFCON every two years, while CAF reviews how best to develop its competitions and strengthen the game across the continent.
