MBABANE -The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has consulted its 54 member associations, including Eswatini, over AFCON’s return to a two-year format.
CAF issued a formal letter to national federations requesting their official stance on the tournament’s frequency. The governing body reportedly highlighted financial concerns surrounding a potential shift.
If the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) moves from every two years to every four years, CAF would need another competition to help generate revenue. CAF had proposed the Africa Nations League. However, CAF says this new competition could take several years before it starts generating significant money.
Member federations have until Wednesday, October 28 to submit their official positions. The consultation comes as CAF’s Executive Committee re-evaluates previous plans regarding the continental flagship event.
In December 2025, ahead of the AFCON edition in Morocco, CAF President Patrice Motsepe signalled plans to align the tournament with a four-year cycle starting in 2028, with subsequent editions earmarked for 2032 and 2036. However, the governing body has since reopened the debate to gather direct input from member nations.
Historically, AFCON’s biannual schedule has given African nations regular competitive action and enhanced player exposure. Opponents argue that a four-year cycle aligns better with the global international calendar, reducing friction with European clubs. Conversely, retaining the traditional two-year cycle guarantees consistent television rights, sponsorship revenue and financial distributions for member associations across the continent.
The submissions provided by member nations by the deadline will heavily influence CAF’s Executive Committee as it determines the future structure of African football.
