In a landmark announcement set to reshape the continent's sporting landscape, Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe has revealed a series of six major changes to African football. The announcement was made during the opening press conference for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, which kicks off on December 21, 2025.
A New Era for AFCON and Continental Competitions
The most significant shift announced by the South African businessman is the change to the Africa Cup of Nations tournament cycle. Starting after the 2027 edition, which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, AFCON will transition from a biennial to a quadrennial event. The first tournament under this new four-year cycle will be held in 2028.
This strategic move is designed to align the premier African football competition with the global football calendar. Hosting the tournament in January has historically caused disruptions for European clubs whose African players are called up for national duty.
In related financial news, Motsepe confirmed an increase in the prize money for the AFCON tournament. The total prize pool for the winner of the 2025 edition in Morocco has been raised from $7 million to $10 million. This increase mirrors similar upward trends in global tournament compensation, following FIFA's decision to boost the prize money for the 2026 World Cup.
Introduction of New Leagues and End of CHAN
Another groundbreaking development is the introduction of the African Nations League. Modelled after the successful UEFA Nations League format, this new competition will take place during the September, October, and November international breaks, commencing in 2029. The league aims to replace meaningless friendly matches with competitive fixtures that carry greater significance for all participating nations.
In a move that will disappoint many fans of domestic league football, Motsepe announced the discontinuation of the African Nations Championship (CHAN). This tournament, exclusively for players active in their respective African national leagues, will be cancelled, though CAF has yet to provide detailed reasons for this decision.
Structural and Financial Reforms
The reforms extend to the structural organisation of regional football bodies. In a notable geographical reassignment, Mauritania has been moved from the West African Football Union (WAFU) to the Union of North African Football (UNAF). This change is expected to impact regional qualifying groups and tournament organisation.
Finally, recognising the need to boost club football, Motsepe announced substantial increases in prize money for CAF's premier club competitions. The winner of the CAF Champions League will now receive $6 million, while the Confederation Cup champion will be awarded $4 million.
These six sweeping changes, announced on the eve of AFCON 2025, signal CAF's ambitious intent to modernise, professionalise, and increase the commercial viability of African football on the world stage.
