CAF has officially confirmed the Africa Cup of Nations will expand to 28 teams starting in 2027, a significant structural change that increases opportunities for African nations to compete at the continental tournament. The announcement came from Patrice Motsepe, president of the Confederation of African Football, during a press conference in South Africa on Wednesday.
The tournament has operated with 24 teams since the 2019 edition in Egypt. CAF's decision to add four additional places represents the first major format shift in nearly a decade, giving emerging football nations a greater pathway to Africa's premier international competition. Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania will jointly host the 2027 finals between 19 June and 17 July, providing the stage for this expanded tournament.
New Era for African Football Development
Motsepe emphasised that the expansion aligns with CAF's broader mission to strengthen continental competitions and elevate playing standards across the continent. The move democratises access to the tournament, allowing more nations to test themselves against established African powerhouses and gain valuable competitive experience on the world stage.
The timing of the expansion coincides with significant scheduling adjustments. The Africa Cup of Nations will return in 2028 before transitioning to a permanent four-year cycle thereafter, creating a more predictable and sustainable tournament calendar for clubs, leagues, and national teams across Africa. This structural overhaul demonstrates CAF's commitment to modernising African football while ensuring competitive balance and inclusivity.
With 28 teams now guaranteed representation opportunities, the 2027 edition in East Africa promises to deliver a more diverse and dynamic tournament that could unearth emerging talent and reshape the competitive landscape of continental football for years to come.
