Good or bad move? AFCON set for expansion ahead of 2027 finals
Reading Time: 2min | Mon. 30.03.26. | 09:51
The expansion would mark the latest change to the tournament format, following the increase from 16 to 24 teams in 2019
The Africa Cup of Nations is set for a major expansion starting with the 2027 edition to be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) planning to increase the number of teams from 24 to 28.
CAF president Patrice Motsepe confirmed the move after an executive committee meeting in Cairo on Sunday, framing it as part of efforts to elevate the quality and reach of the continental showpiece.
“This is evidence of our commitment to world-class football with the best African players from all over the world returning to compete on the continent,” Motsepe said.
The expansion would mark the latest change to the tournament format, following the increase from 16 to 24 teams in 2019.
However, Motsepe did not provide details on how the additional four teams would be accommodated.
He maintained that preparations for the 2027 finals in East Africa remain on track, with the three nations set to deliver a historic tournament for the region.
Beyond expansion, CAF is also planning significant changes to the competition calendar.
A special AFCON tournament will be staged in 2028, after which the competition will shift from its current two-year cycle to a four-year schedule.
In addition, a CAF Nations League is expected to be introduced from 2029.
Motsepe emphasized the need for stability in African football scheduling and development across the continent.
“We have to stop this thing of African fixtures not being predictable, consistent and reliable. We must develop football in East Africa, which is an area of much potential,” he said.
CAF is also moving to reform its regulatory framework following controversy surrounding the last AFCON final, with Motsepe insisting changes are underway to strengthen trust in officiating and governance structures.
“CAF has taken extensive legal advice from top African and international football lawyers and experts, to ensure that the CAF statutes and regulations adhere to and implement global football best practices, on and off the field,” he said.
“This is important for the respect, integrity and credibility of African referees, VAR operators and the CAF Disciplinary Board and Appeal Board.
“CAF is working with FIFA for the ongoing training of African referees, VAR operators and match commissioners so that they are as good as the best in the world.. CAF has made significant progress over the past five years in implementing governance, ethics, transparency and managerial best practices.”
Kenya and its co-hosting partners, Uganda and Tanzania, are in a race against time to ensure all infrastructure requirements are in place ahead of the historic Africa Cup of Nations tournament set for mid next year.
