The Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) will transition to a four-year cycle starting in 2028, as confirmed by the president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Patrice Motsepe. This change follows decades of biennial tournaments since 1968, with a brief exception in 2012 and 2013. The switch will take effect after the 2027 edition in East Africa, with the 2028 tournament marking the first of the new quadrennial structure.
Motsepe made the surprise announcement after a meeting of CAF’s executive committee in Morocco, just before the 2025 Afcon finals in Rabat. He revealed plans for an exciting new structure in African football, including the creation of an African Nations League, which will be held annually from 2029.
Key Changes to Afcon and New African Nations League
The decision to change Afcon’s scheduling follows concerns regarding the football calendar, especially since many tournaments were previously held mid-season, conflicting with the European club schedule. Despite the challenges, CAF remained committed to its biennial format due to the revenue generated by the tournament, which is vital for reinvestment in African football. However, with global football calendars becoming more synchronized, the time has come for a change.
As part of the announcement, Motsepe shared that the prize money for the Afcon winners will rise from $7 million (£5.2 million) to $10 million (£7.5 million), reflecting the growing importance of the tournament.
New African Nations League Starting in 2029
In addition to the changes to Afcon, CAF will introduce the African Nations League, which will be held every year starting in 2029. This competition will feature all 54 CAF member associations, divided into four zones: Northern, Eastern, Western, and Southern Africa. Matches will take place in September and October, with the regional champions meeting in November to determine the overall winner.
Motsepe emphasized that the African Nations League will provide an “Afcon-like” experience every year, attracting top-class sponsorships in collaboration with FIFA. This new annual competition will feature Africa’s best players, many of whom play in European leagues, ensuring a world-class tournament every year on the African continent.
Impact on the Future of African Football
The shift to a four-year Afcon cycle and the introduction of the African Nations League signals a new era for African football. CAF’s decision to align with the global football calendar, in consultation with FIFA president Gianni Infantino, aims to enhance the visibility of African football and improve its competitiveness on the world stage.
While the 2025 Afcon in Morocco will take place during the Christmas and New Year period, the 2027 and 2028 editions will follow the new structure, bringing even more excitement to the continent’s premier football tournament.
As African football evolves, these changes bring both challenges and opportunities. With increased prize money, more competitive tournaments, and better synchronization with global football, Africa’s top football teams will continue to showcase their talents to the world.
