Afcon Returns to Two-Year Cycle After CAF Reverses Four-Year Decision

The African Cup of Nations (Afcon) will revert to its traditional two-year cycle, following a review by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) of its December decision to stage the tournament every four years. The reversal comes after widespread criticism from players, coaches, and fans who argued that a four-year gap would diminish the competition's prestige and reduce opportunities for African nations to compete at the highest level. The original change, announced in late 2023, had been intended to ease fixture congestion and align with global football calendars, but it faced immediate backlash from across the continent. CAF's decision to restore the biennial format was confirmed after consultations with member associations and key stakeholders, who emphasized the tournament's role in developing football and generating crucial revenue. The next Afcon is scheduled for 2025 in Morocco, with the 2027 edition expected to follow in 2027. The return to a two-year cycle is seen as a victory for traditionalists and a boost for African football's global standing.