The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has revealed plans to expand the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to 28 participating countries, a move aimed at increasing competitiveness and giving more nations the opportunity to shine on the continental stage.
Patrice Motsepe, who is the president of CAF disclosed the proposal during a press briefing in Tanzania, confirming that the expanded tournament would be held every four years.
The AFCON as we know it now is one of Africa’s most important sporting events, Motsepe said. We want to increase it to 28 countries, and, as we have said, hold it every four years. This will allow more nations to compete at the highest level, showcase their talent, and contribute to the growth of African football.
Motsepe highlighted that the expansion is part of CAF’s broader vision to modernize African football, improve the tournament’s competitiveness, and enhance its global appeal.
By including more teams, CAF hopes to give smaller footballing nations a platform to compete alongside Africa’s traditional powerhouses, fostering talent development and increasing fan engagement across the continent.
The CAF president also noted that the four-year cycle would allow national teams more time to prepare for the tournament, improve their squads, and build competitive consistency. This is expected to enhance the quality of football on display and ensure that AFCON remains a premier global sporting event.
CAF officials are now set to consult with member associations and stakeholders to finalize the tournament format, qualification criteria, and logistical arrangements for the expanded competition.
While the proposal has been widely welcomed as a bold step toward inclusivity, some critics have raised concerns about scheduling, travel, and the competitive balance of a larger tournament.
If approved, the expansion to 28 teams will mark a historic shift in AFCON’s structure, offering more nations a chance to make their mark and further cementing the tournament’s reputation as Africa’s flagship football championship.
With CAF taking steps to modernize the event, Motsepe emphasized that the ultimate goal is to grow African football both on and off the pitch, leaving a lasting legacy for players, fans, and the continent as a whole.
Source: Ghanasoccernet
