AFCON with 28 teams, record prize money and focus on 2027: the major announcements from Patrice Motsepe

Revolution: the AFCON expands to 28 teams

This is the major announcement from this address: the Africa Cup of Nations is reaching a new milestone in its history. After the expansion to 24 teams in 2019, the continent’s flagship competition will now welcome 28 national squads starting from AFCON 2027, which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda from June 19 to July 17, 2027.

“We have increased the number of participants for the next edition of the AFCON,” officially confirmed Patrice Motsepe, making the tournament’s expansion official.

This strategic change will result in a reorganization of the final phase. A seventh group is expected to be created for the final phase. The top two teams from each of the seven groups (making 14 teams) will be joined by the two best third-placed teams to make up a final bracket with 16 nations.

Doubts surrounding AFCON 2027 dispelled

While recurring rumors spoke of worrying delays in infrastructure preparations—particularly in Kenya—the head of African football made sure to reassure. In a highly anticipated address, the continental body affirmed that the organization of the tournament is progressing “according to the established schedule. ”

CAF praised the “exemplary commitment” of the governments of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Work is speeding up across all priority projects: modernization of stadiums, creation of training grounds up to standards, upgrading hotel capacities, transportation, security, technology networks, and TV broadcast resources. A firm clarification intended to put an end to speculation.

67% increase in prize money for the Women's AFCON

The South African official also announced an unprecedented financial revaluation for the Women's AFCON. The total prize pool rises from 3.475 to 5.8 million dollars, a massive increase of 67%.

The breakdown of allocations is now as follows:

• Champion: 2 million dollars (compared to 1 million before, or +100%)

• Runner-up: 750,000 dollars (+50%)

• Third place: 500,000 dollars

Through this unprecedented financial effort, CAF aims to directly encourage national federations to invest heavily in the training and scouting of young female players.

World Cup 2026 and academies: building on success

Recalling the impressive performance of the ten African teams participating in the recent 48-team 2026 World Cup, Patrice Motsepe praised the tactical maturity, mindset, and level of play on display. For the president, this stronger presence brings Africa closer than ever to its ultimate objective: to one day lift the World Cup trophy.

To turn this progress into lasting success, CAF will increase investment in its 54 member associations. In addition to refurbishing stadiums, CAF will launch a large-scale continental youth academy program. Developed with the support of private partners and governments, this initiative will ensure dual support (academic and athletic) to secure the pathway of talents into the professional world.

AFCON 2028-2036 bids, governance and the AFCON 2025 final: the roadmap is set

On the institutional and structural front, Patrice Motsepe addressed several strategic topics, starting with the opening of the bidding process for the next three editions. CAF also reaffirmed the strict requirement for a club licensing system to ensure financial transparency and regular payment of salaries. The development of world-class refereeing and the widespread adoption of VAR remain priorities.

Finally, questioned about the dispute between Morocco and Senegal following the appeal jury’s decision crowning the Atlas Lions after the disqualification of the Lions, the CAF president advocated respect for the institutions:

“As for the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, we are awaiting the verdict of the Court of Arbitration for Sport. The matter is not in our hands. We are waiting for the decisions and we will implement them.”