African Cup of Nations returns to biennial format over financial concerns

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced on Friday that its executive committee has unanimously decided to revert to holding the Africa Cup of Nations finals every two years, after previously switching to a four-year cycle. The reversal comes amid concerns that launching the proposed new continental competition, the African Nations League, would delay the financial returns needed to develop football across Africa, according to CAF President Patrice Motsepe.

Motsepe explained in a statement issued by CAF that the lengthy timeline required to launch the African Nations League—which is designed to be similar to the Africa Cup of Nations and held every two years—prompted worries about postponing crucial financial contributions and revenues. The statement added that these revenues are essential for making CAF competitions globally competitive and achieving financial independence.

Under the new decision, the next Africa Cup of Nations will take place in 2027 in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda as scheduled, with subsequent editions set for 2028, 2031, and 2033. Motsepe clarified that the three-year gap between the 2028 and 2031 tournaments is intended to avoid clashing with the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

As for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title, its fate remains undecided. Senegal was crowned champion on January 18 in Rabat after defeating Morocco 1-0 in a match marred by chaotic scenes in the final minutes, when many Senegalese players left the pitch in protest at refereeing decisions. The final ruling is still pending from the Court of Arbitration for Sport.