AFCON Returns to Two-Year Cycle After CAF Reverses Quadrennial Plan

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will continue to be held every two years after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) reversed its previous decision to move to a four-year cycle.

CAF announced that its Executive Committee unanimously voted to reinstate the traditional biennial schedule. The governing body explained that a previously proposed CAF Nations League would take years to generate sufficient revenue to sustain African football.

Key Details of the Schedule Change

• Biennial Return: The tournament will maintain its two-year cycle instead of shifting to a quadrennial format.
• Upcoming Hosts: Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda are scheduled to cohost the upcoming tournament in 2027.
• Future Tournaments: Subsequent editions are listed for 2028, 2031, and 2033.
• World Cup Gap: There will be no tournament held in 2030, upholding the tradition of avoiding scheduling conflicts with the FIFA World Cup.

Statements and Practical Implications

CAF President Patrice Motsepe previously hinted at the reconsideration during a strategy conference in Cape Verde. Following the formal vote, Motsepe stated that the decision aims to promote African football, support the 54 CAF member associations, and protect the interests of African players based at clubs outside the continent.

Observers and fans looking to verify official fixture lists and updates can check announcements directly through CAF's official communication channels and media releases.