CAF expands AFCON to 28 teams, signaling a major shift in African football’s flagship tournament. Patrice Motsepe, President of the Confederation of African Football, confirmed the decision on Sunday, March 29, after a CAF executive committee meeting.
The announcement highlights CAF’s push to elevate African football and give more nations a chance to compete at the highest level. Motsepe described the move as a commitment to world-class football, aimed at uniting the continent’s top players and providing them with a platform to showcase their talent. “This is about our commitment to world-class football, bringing together the best African players from across the globe to compete on the continent,” he said.
While the expansion is confirmed, key details remain unclear. CAF has not outlined how the tournament will integrate four additional teams or when the new format will begin. The Cup of Nations previously increased from 16 to 24 teams in 2019, making this the next stage in its evolution. Expanding to 28 teams presents logistical and competitive challenges, but it also offers smaller football nations greater exposure on the continental stage.
Motsepe also confirmed that the 2027 AFCON will take place as scheduled in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The 2028 tournament will mark the beginning of a transition toward a fixed four-year cycle, which CAF intends to implement gradually. This plan aims to stabilize the competition’s schedule while accommodating the new, larger format.
The decision reflects broader ambitions for African football. By increasing the number of participating nations, CAF intends to strengthen the competitive balance, expand fan engagement, and highlight a wider range of talent. It also aligns with the continent’s growing influence in global football, positioning Africa as a hub for high-level competition and international attention.
Although questions about the exact structure and implementation remain, the move is a clear signal of CAF’s strategic priorities: inclusivity, growth, and the pursuit of a more prominent role for African football on the world stage. The expanded AFCON promises to be more competitive, more diverse, and a stronger showcase for the continent’s footballing potential.
