Confederation of African Football president Patrice Motsepe has announced plans to increase the number of participating teams in the Africa Cup of Nations from 24 to 28.
Speaking after an executive committee meeting on Sunday, Motsepe explained that the decision aligns with CAF’s vision to promote high-quality football while giving more African nations the opportunity to compete at the highest level.
He said the expansion reflects the body’s “commitment to world-class football with the best African players from all over the world returning to compete on the continent.”
However, Motsepe did not provide specific details on how the additional teams would be accommodated or when the new format would officially begin.
The tournament had already expanded from 16 to 24 teams in 2019, with the most recent editions maintaining that structure.
Looking ahead, Motsepe confirmed that the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations will take place as scheduled in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, while a separate edition is planned for 2028, after which the competition will shift to a four-year cycle.
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He also revealed plans for a new Nations League competition set to debut in 2029, featuring 16 teams in a biennial final tournament.
Motsepe emphasized the importance of consistency in African football development, stating, “We have to stop this thing of African fixtures not being predictable, consistent and reliable. We must develop football in East Africa, which is an area of much potential.”
The proposed changes highlight CAF’s ongoing efforts to broaden the tournament’s reach and create more competitive opportunities for emerging national teams across the continent.