Rabat, Morocco – The Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced a historic decision to hold the Africa Cup of Nations every four years instead of every two.
This decision, taken by the Executive Committee in the Moroccan capital Rabat,
ends a system that has lasted since the start of the tournament in 1957;
This is a step aimed at restructuring continental competitions in line with global developments.
Roadmap: 2027 and 2028 versions
According to what CAF President Patrice Motsepe stated at a press conference,
The 2027 edition scheduled for Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda will take place as planned,
followed by an exceptional edition in 2028.
Accordingly, the four-year system will officially begin to operate after that date.
This gives national teams and federations a greater opportunity to prepare and plan for the long term.
African Nations League: A sustainable annual alternative
In a related context, Motsepe revealed the launch of the “African Nations League”
which will be held annually starting in 2029;
This is to bridge the gap that the new system for the CAN will leave.
This step aims to ensure a steady flow of financial resources annually.
In addition to strengthening the financial independence of the continental federation,
This ensures full compliance with the agenda of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA).
Ending the “clubs and national teams” conflict
On the other hand, Motsepe stressed that this amendment is in
the best interest of European players and clubs;
He said: “I cannot allow players to leave their clubs in the middle of the season, that is not right.”
Therefore, the new structure aims to reduce the pressure on professional African stars,
This ends the frustration resulting from the conflict of interest
between professionalism and national duty.
Increased prize money and the launch of “Cannes Morocco”
In conclusion, the CAF president indicated an immediate increase in the value of the prizes;
the winner of the current edition will receive
Which kicks off tomorrow in Morocco with a prize pool of $10 million.
Therefore, African football fans are eagerly awaiting
the opening match between Morocco and Comoros.
Especially since it comes amidst these major transformations
that will change the face of the game in the African continent forever.
