AFCON: CAF makes big decision on expanding teams from 24 to 28

Plans to expand the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) from 24 to 28 teams have been rejected by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), according to reports.

The proposal was originally put forward by CAF president, , during a press conference in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, in February. If approved, the new format would have taken effect from the 2028 tournament.

However, members of CAF’s executive committee reportedly voted against the idea.

Speaking anonymously, one committee member described the proposal as a “very bad idea,” saying there was no convincing reason to increase the number of participating teams.

Another committee member claimed the proposal was presented without prior consultation with the executive committee.

Despite the rejection, CAF says discussions on improving the Africa Cup of Nations are ongoing. CAF’s communications director, Luxolo September, said the organisation remains focused on making its competitions, especially AFCON, world-class.

He explained that the debate over the tournament’s format is only one part of a broader strategy aimed at strengthening African football.

The next AFCON tournament is scheduled to take place in June and July 2027 and will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

Meanwhile, CAF has opened the bidding process for the 2028 edition, with Ethiopia, Morocco, and a joint bid from Botswana and South Africa among the countries interested in hosting the competition.

CAF says its leadership remains united in its goal of elevating African football and ensuring that the Africa Cup of Nations continues to grow in quality, competitiveness and global appeal.