AFCON to expand tournament to 28 teams

CAIRO: The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is set to expand from 24 to 28 teams, CAF president Patrice Motsepe announced on Sunday.

Speaking at a press conference following an executive committee meeting, Motsepe said the move demonstrates the organisation’s “commitment to world-class football, with the best African players from all over the world returning to compete on the continent.”

However, he did not provide details on how the tournament format will accommodate the four additional teams or when the expansion will take effect.

The last four AFCON finals featured 24 teams, following an increase from 16 participants in 2019.

Motsepe confirmed that the 2027 finals will proceed as scheduled in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. He also announced plans for a second Cup of Nations tournament in 2028, after which the competition will shift to a four-year cycle.

Additionally, CAF plans to launch an annual Nations League from 2029, culminating in a 16-team final tournament held every two years.

“We must stop the inconsistency and unpredictability of African fixtures. Developing football in East Africa, a region with tremendous potential, is a priority,” Motsepe added