Africa: Afcon to Hold Every Two Years Again As CAF Reverses Decision

What the report says

The Confederation of African Football has reversed an earlier plan to move the Africa Cup of Nations to a four-year schedule, restoring the tournament to its traditional two-year cycle, according to a report distributed by AllAfrica from Vanguard. The change was approved unanimously by CAF’s Executive Committee after the organisation’s strategy conference in Cabo Verde, which took place from October 7 to 9, 2026.

CAF President Patrice Motsepe said the decision was made in the interest of African football, its 54 member associations and African players based outside the continent. The confederation had previously been considering a broader calendar overhaul that would have paired a four-year AFCON with a new Africa Nations League held every two years. CAF said it now believes the proposed Nations League would take too long to deliver the financial and development benefits initially expected.

Under the revised schedule, the next AFCON is set for 2027, with Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda due to host jointly. CAF also indicated that later editions are planned for 2028, 2031 and 2033, while keeping the competition out of FIFA World Cup years. The reversal is significant because AFCON is one of Africa’s most important sporting events and a major showcase for football, national identity and continental unity.