# CAF strategic planning and AFCON cycle review

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/caf-strategic-planning-and-afcon-cycle-review
> Updated: 2026-10-24T14:51:09.000Z. Sources: 32. Developments: 2.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) held a strategic conference in Cape Verde from October 7 to 9, 2026, to address the future of football on the continent. The event involved leaders from 54 member associations and international experts, including FIFA’s Director of Football Development, Arsène Wenger, who discussed technical performances and the potential for African teams to win a FIFA World Cup.

A key focus of the conference was the tournament cycle for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). CAF President Patrice Motsepe revealed that the executive committee is reviewing a potential reversal of a previous decision to move the tournament to a four-year cycle. While a shift to a four-year format was announced in December 2025 to align with FIFA, stakeholders raised concerns that the change could result in “economic suicide” and reduced revenue. Motsepe stated, “We are looking at everything, including having the AFCON coming back every two years.”

To resolve the issue, CAF has launched a formal consultation with its 54 member associations. Member nations must submit their official positions on whether AFCON should follow a two-year or four-year cycle by October 28. If the transition to a four-year format proceeds, CAF may require new competitions, such as a proposed Africa Nations League, to sustain revenue streams for member associations. A final decision is expected during the General Assembly on November 21 in Abuja, Nigeria.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-24: CAF consults members on AFCON frequency and announces club draws

CAF is consulting its 54 members on whether AFCON should be held every two or four years, while also announcing the 2026/27 Champions League and Confederation Cup group stage draws in Cairo.

10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/caf-consults-member-associations-on-afcon-tournament-frequency

### 2026-10-09: CAF considers returning Africa Cup of Nations to biennial cycle

CAF President Patrice Motsepe has revealed that the Confederation of African Football is reconsidering a return to a biennial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) cycle following backlash to a four-year plan.

22 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/caf-considers-returning-africa-cup-of-nations-to-two-year-cycle

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Cite as: CAF strategic planning and AFCON cycle review. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/caf-strategic-planning-and-afcon-cycle-review