AFCON set for four-year cycle as CAF unveils new Nations League and prize money boost.

AFCON set for four-year cycle as CAF unveils new Nations League and prize money boost.

The Africa Cup of Nations will undergo a historic restructuring as CAF confirms a switch to a four-year cycle after the 2027 edition, alongside a major prize money increase and the launch of a new African Nations League.

The 2027 AFCON in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda will be the last tournament played under the current scheduling format before the competition moves to a four-year cycle.

Under the new calendar, AFCON will be staged in 2028, 2032, 2036, and subsequent years, reshaping the rhythm of international football on the continent.

As part of the reforms, the prize money for the AFCON champions will be raised to 10 million dollars, significantly boosting financial rewards for winning nations.

The increase is aimed at reflecting the tournament’s growing commercial value and incentivising stronger investment in national team structures.

CAF has also announced the creation of an African Nations League, to be held every year.

The new competition is expected to provide more regular, high-level fixtures for African national teams, enhancing player development, fan engagement, and the overall profile of African football globally.