CAF unveils massive prize money increase for Champions League and Confederation Cup

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced a historic increase in prize money for its flagship interclub tournaments, marking one of the most significant financial reforms in recent years.

Beginning immediately, the winner of the CAF Champions League will earn $6 million, while the champion of the CAF Confederation Cup will pocket $4 million.

The decision was ratified during the CAF Executive Committee meeting in February and received the backing of CAF president Patrice Motsepe. The revised prize structure will take effect from the final stages of the ongoing 2025/26 campaign.

Under the new arrangement, the Champions League winner’s prize climbs from $4 million to $6 million, representing a 50 percent increase. The Confederation Cup winner will see an even sharper rise, with prize money doubling from $2 million to $4 million.

CAF has confirmed that the total prize pool for the Champions League has now reached $19.6 million, while the Confederation Cup will distribute $11.9 million in total.

The financial adjustments are not limited to eventual champions alone. Clubs eliminated during the preliminary rounds are also set to benefit, as the participation grant has been raised from $50,000 to $100,000. The move is expected to ease travel and organisational expenses, particularly for smaller sides competing on the continental stage.

The updated prize structure applies to teams that have secured qualification for the March 2026 quarter-finals, including AS FAR and RS Berkane in the Champions League, as well as Wydad AC and Olympic Safi in the Confederation Cup.

CAF attributed the increase to a return to profitability, citing improved television rights agreements and stronger sponsorship revenues. The governing body believes the enhanced financial rewards will strengthen the competitiveness of African club football and contribute to the long-term growth and commercial sustainability of its continental competitions.