AFCON set for return to two-year cycle as CAF weighs major format shift

CAF is reportedly preparing to restore the Africa Cup of Nations to a two-year cycle, although the governing body has yet to officially confirm the proposed change.

The Africa Cup of Nations is set to return to its traditional two-year schedule, with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) reportedly preparing to confirm a change following growing concerns over its decision to move the tournament to a four-year cycle.

The latest development was reported by journalist Micky Jnr, who indicated on Wednesday, October 28, that the decision was expected to be confirmed at the next meeting of CAF’s Executive Committee.

However, an official confirmation from CAF is still expected to be made.

CAF reconsiders four-year AFCON plan

The renewed discussions follow comments by CAF president Patrice Motsepe, who disclosed on October 9 that the governing body was reviewing the competition’s frequency.

Speaking during a strategy conference in Cape Verde, Motsepe said CAF was exploring the possibility of restoring the tournament’s biennial format.

The review represents a significant shift from the plan announced in December 2025, when CAF decided that AFCON would move to a four-year cycle after the 2028 edition.

The original restructuring also included plans to introduce an African Nations League from 2029, providing a regular platform for national teams while reducing the frequency of the continent’s flagship tournament.

However, the proposed changes attracted criticism from stakeholders concerned about the competition’s commercial value, national-team development and importance to African football.

Member Associations consulted

CAF has since sought the opinions of its 54 member associations, asking them to indicate whether they support retaining the four-year schedule or returning to a two-year cycle.

The consultation, which reportedly closed on Wednesday, October 28, is expected to inform the governing body’s decision on the tournament’s future.

A return to the traditional format would preserve AFCON’s established place in the international football calendar while giving national teams more frequent opportunities to compete for continental honours.

The decision also carries financial implications, as AFCON remains a major source of revenue for CAF through broadcasting, sponsorship and commercial partnerships.

AFCON 2027 remains on the calendar

The immediate plans for AFCON 2027 remain unchanged, with Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda scheduled to co-host the tournament from June 19 to July 17, 2027.

CAF had previously opened the bidding process for the 2028, 2032 and 2036 editions as part of its four-year scheduling strategy.

If the governing body formally restores the biennial format, it will need to clarify how the revised calendar affects those editions and whether the existing bidding arrangements will be adjusted.

The future of the proposed African Nations League will also require clarification as CAF determines how best to organise its senior national-team competitions.

For now, the football community awaits an official confirmation from CAF.

A confirmed return to a two-year cycle would mark a major reversal of its earlier plans and preserve the format that has long defined Africa’s premier international football tournament.