Patrice Motsepe hints at reversal of AFCON’s four-year cycle

CAF president Patrice Motsepe has hinted that the Africa Cup of Nations could return to its traditional two-year cycle following renewed discussions about the tournament’s future. According to Punch Newspapers, Motsepe disclosed the development on Friday at the CAF Strategy Conference in Cape Verde, confirming that the governing body was reconsidering several aspects of the competition’s schedule.

CAF announced in December 2025 that AFCON would move to a four-year cycle after the 2028 edition, alongside plans to introduce an African Nations League from 2029. The proposed changes were intended to align African football with the international calendar. However, Motsepe’s latest comments suggest the biennial format remains under consideration. The CAF president did not announce a final decision or provide a timeline for any potential reversal.