AFCON returns to a two-year cycle, CAF confirms schedule for upcoming editions

In an official statement, African football’s governing body explained that this decision aims to advance, protect and promote the interests of African football and its 54 member associations.

CAF also intends to take into account the interests of African players playing for clubs outside the continent. Following the 2027 tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, the competition will be held from 2028 onwards. Subsequent tournaments are scheduled for 2031 and 2033.

This reorganisation also takes the international calendar into account. As the 2030 FIFA World Cup is scheduled for the same year as one of the regular editions of the Africa Cup of Nations, CAF states that, in accordance with FIFA tradition, the finals of the Africa Cup of Nations and other confederation national team competitions may not be held during the year of the World Cup.