The President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Patrice Motsepe, has confirmed plans for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to be staged every four years. 

The announcement of the new schedule was made on Saturday, December 20, bringing an end to a long-standing tradition of the tournament being held every two years l since 1968.

The changes to the format of the tournament will take effect after the 2027 edition, which will be staged in Eastern Africa. 

The 2028 edition will follow, after which the four-year cycle will officially begin. 

According to Motsepe, the change is part of a bold vision for the future of African football. 

“We have the most exciting new structure for African football,” he said.

There’s a belief within the association that the new format will help improve the quality of the tournament, allow better preparation for host nations, and reduce scheduling pressure on players and clubs.

CAF has also unveiled plans for a new African Nations League, which will start from 2029.