The Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced the decision on Friday, October 30, 2026, following a unanimous vote by its leadership.
The decision reverses the earlier proposal to hold AFCON every four years, a change that had generated considerable debate among football supporters and stakeholders across the continent.
Under the restored arrangement, AFCON will retain its traditional biennial format, allowing African nations to compete for continental glory every two years.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe and the organisation now face the challenge of balancing the tournament’s traditional schedule with the demands of the international football calendar.
The next planned editions are scheduled for 2028, 2031 and 2033, avoiding the 2030 FIFA World Cup year.
This decision is significant for African football, as AFCON remains one of the continent’s biggest sporting events, bringing together the best national teams, players and supporters.
For millions of fans, the return to a two year cycle means more opportunities to witness unforgettable rivalries, emerging talents and battles for African supremacy.
THE BIG QUESTION: Was CAF right to abandon the four year plan and restore AFCON to every two years