AFCON Schedule Changed to Every 4 Years

CAF President Patrice Motsepe has announced that the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will move from a two-year cycle to a four-year cycle, marking a major change in African football.

Motsepe made the announcement on Saturday, December 20, ending a tradition that has been in place since 1968. Under the new plan, AFCON will no longer be staged every two years. However, the current format will continue until after the 2027 tournament, which is scheduled to take place in Eastern Africa.

CAF has explained that the 2028 edition will still be held, but it will serve as a transition event. After that tournament, AFCON will officially adopt the four-year cycle going forward.

Motsepe said the decision is part of a wider plan to strengthen football on the continent. “We have the most exciting new structure for African football,” he said.

CAF believes the new system will improve the overall quality of the competition. It is also expected to give host countries more time to prepare and ease pressure on players and clubs caused by tight schedules.

In addition, CAF has announced plans to introduce an African Nations League, which is expected to begin in 2029.