The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has reversed its decision to stage the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) every four years, restoring the competition’s traditional two-year cycle.
The decision was unanimously approved by CAF’s Executive Committee on Thursday, October 29, 2026, following months of debate over plans to restructure African international football competitions.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe had earlier indicated that the governing body was reconsidering its decision during a strategy conference held in Cabo Verde from October 7 to 9.
The original plan, announced in December 2025, was to move AFCON to a four-year schedule after the 2028 edition. CAF had proposed introducing a new Africa Nations League to provide a regular continental competition in place of the biennial AFCON.
However, the governing body said the proposed Nations League would require several years to generate the substantial financial resources needed to support African football and make its competitions more competitive and financially sustainable.
Explaining the reversal, Motsepe said the decision was taken in the interests of African football, CAF’s 54 member associations and African players employed by clubs outside the continent.
AFCON Editions Scheduled for 2027, 2028, 2031 and 2033
Under the revised arrangement, the next AFCON will take place in 2027, with Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda serving as co-hosts.
Subsequent editions are scheduled for 2028, 2031 and 2033. There will be no AFCON in 2030, as CAF intends to avoid holding the tournament during the FIFA World Cup year.
The return to a two-year cycle marks a significant reversal of CAF’s previous restructuring plan and restores the competition’s familiar rhythm for national teams, supporters and football administrators across the continent.
AFCON remains one of Africa’s biggest sporting events, bringing together national teams from across the continent while showcasing African football, cultures and traditions to a global audience.
The latest decision is also expected to influence future planning for African international football, although CAF has not fully clarified the future role of the proposed Africa Nations League.
For African football fans, the reversal means the continent’s flagship national-team competition will once again be held more frequently, giving countries regular opportunities to compete for continental honours.
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