Patrice Motsepe, president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), has revealed plans to expand the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) from 24 to 28 teams ahead of the 2027 edition.
Motsepe disclosed this during a press conference following a CAF Executive Committee meeting.
The AFCON was last expanded in 2019, increasing from 16 to 24 participating nations.
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He also confirmed that the 2027 AFCON will proceed as planned, with Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda set to co-host the competition, the first time three nations will jointly stage the tournament.
Looking ahead, Motsepe noted that after an additional edition in 2028, AFCON is expected to transition to a four-year cycle.
“The adjustments reflect CAF’s commitment to developing world-class football with the best African players from all over the world returning to compete on the continent,” Motsepe said.
Motsepe, elected CAF president in 2021 and re-elected in 2025, remains the first South African to lead the continental governing body.
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