BREAKING NEWS: CAF confirms AFCON 2027 will remain a 24-team tournament

CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe has confirmed that the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will be contested by 24 teams, putting an end to speculation that the tournament would be expanded to 28 nations.

Reports had emerged in recent days claiming the continental showpiece would increase from 24 to 28 participating teams beginning with the 2027 edition.

However, Motsepe has now clarified that no such expansion will take place, with the competition maintaining its current format.

The decision means the 2027 tournament will continue with the 24-team structure that was first introduced at the 2019 AFCON in Egypt.

The format has since been retained for subsequent editions and will remain unchanged when East Africa hosts the competition for the first time.

Motsepe also confirmed that the 2027 AFCON will be staged between June and July 2027, marking a return to a mid-year schedule.

The tournament will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, becoming the first Africa Cup of Nations to be co-hosted by three countries.

Attention will now turn to the qualification campaign, with the AFCON 2027 qualifiers set to begin in September/October 2026. Nations across the continent will battle for one of the 24 available places at Africa’s biggest football tournament.

The confirmation provides clarity for member associations, coaches and supporters following widespread reports suggesting an expansion to 28 teams.

With the format now settled, participating nations can fully focus on preparations for the qualifying campaign ahead of the finals in East Africa next year.