CAF weighs further AFCON expansion to 28 teams, says Motsepe

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is exploring plans to expand the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to 28 teams, according to its president Patrice Motsepe, Sport360NG reports.

Motsepe disclosed the proposal during a press briefing following a CAF Executive Committee meeting in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, signalling that discussions are underway within the organisation’s leadership.

AFCON was increased from 16 to 24 teams beginning with the 2019 tournament in Egypt — a format that has remained in place through the 2021 edition in Cameroon and the 2023 finals in Côte d’Ivoire. The 2025 tournament in Morocco is also set to be staged under the 24-team structure.

However, CAF is now assessing the feasibility of further expansion to 28 nations — a move that could significantly alter the landscape of Africa’s premier international football competition.

Motsepe said deliberations are ongoing, with careful evaluation of sporting competitiveness, commercial opportunities and broader continental representation forming part of the review process.

Should the proposal gain approval, it would represent another landmark development in the evolution of AFCON, potentially opening the door for increased participation and wider exposure for emerging football nations across Africa.