Confederation of African Football president Patrice Motsepe announced a new annual tournament called the African Nations League, set to launch in 2029. The competition will involve all fifty-four member nations divided into four geographic zones, with matches scheduled during the September and October international windows. This structure aims to generate more consistent revenue and provide high-level games each year, potentially increasing appearances by top African stars on the continent.
Simultaneously, the Africa Cup of Nations will shift from its biennial format to a four-year cycle starting after the 2028 edition. The change intends to align with the global football calendar and reduce club versus country conflicts for players based in Europe. Motsepe also confirmed a prize money increase for the upcoming AFCON, with the 2025 champion receiving ten million dollars.
These reforms are designed to strengthen African football's financial independence and competitive landscape. The annual league is expected to diversify income beyond the current heavy reliance on the AFCON tournament. The overall strategy seeks to enhance player development, retain talent visibility within Africa, and foster greater commercial growth for national associations.
Simultaneously, the Africa Cup of Nations will shift from its biennial format to a four-year cycle starting after the 2028 edition. The change intends to align with the global football calendar and reduce club versus country conflicts for players based in Europe. Motsepe also confirmed a prize money increase for the upcoming AFCON, with the 2025 champion receiving ten million dollars.
These reforms are designed to strengthen African football's financial independence and competitive landscape. The annual league is expected to diversify income beyond the current heavy reliance on the AFCON tournament. The overall strategy seeks to enhance player development, retain talent visibility within Africa, and foster greater commercial growth for national associations.
