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Africa Cup of Nations Abandons 4-Year Cycle Shift… Reverts to Biennial Schedule

Kim Hyeong-yeol

Published : Oct 30, 2026 4:19 PM


▲ The 2026 Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal (File Photo)

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has reversed its decision to hold the Africa Cup of Nations every four years, opting instead to maintain its biennial schedule.

Reuters reported that the CAF held an executive committee meeting on the 29th (local time) and unanimously decided to host the Cup of Nations every two years once again.

The Cup of Nations has traditionally been held every two years.

Last December, the CAF made a surprise announcement to change the Cup of Nations hosting cycle to four years and launch a new Nations League every two years, but the plan was met with a lukewarm reception.

CAF President Patrice Motsepe stated at a meeting held in Cape Verde earlier this month that a return to the two-year cycle was under review, and the executive committee meeting concluded with the decision to maintain the traditional hosting interval.

The primary reason for retaining the biennial schedule is money.

The CAF explained that it would take several years for the Nations League to generate enough revenue to sustain African football.

President Motsepe said, "This decision is aimed at advancing and protecting the interests of African football, its 54 member associations, and African players playing in clubs outside of Africa."

The next tournament will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda in 2027, with subsequent editions taking place in 2028, 2031, and 2033.

In accordance with the tradition of not holding the Cup of Nations in years when the World Cup takes place, the tournament will not be held in 2030.

(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)