CAF Gives Federations Until October 28 to Choose Two- or Four, Year AFCON Cycle

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has formally asked its 54 member associations to decide whether the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) should be played every two years or every four years, according to a report by The Reporter.

Federations must submit their choice by Wednesday, Tikimt 18, 2019 E.C. (October 28, 2026). The consultation gives member associations a direct say in the future scheduling of the continent's flagship national-team competition.

A long-running debate

How often AFCON should be held has been debated in African football for years. The tournament has traditionally been staged every two years. Supporters of that format say it keeps national teams active, generates regular revenue for CAF and its member associations, and gives smaller football nations frequent chances to compete at the highest continental level.

Critics of the biennial model point to a crowded international calendar. Many of Africa's leading players are based at European clubs, and tournaments held during the European season have led to repeated disputes over player release. Advocates of a four-year cycle argue that a less frequent AFCON could increase its commercial value, ease the burden on players and align it with the European Championship and the Copa América.

CAF leaders have previously signalled interest in changing the format, and the issue has been discussed alongside proposals for new competitions in the international calendar. The request to federations suggests the confederation is seeking a clear mandate from its membership before a final decision is taken.

What the consultation means

Each member association is expected to register its preferred cycle with CAF before the deadline. It was not immediately clear how the responses will be weighed, or whether the outcome will go to the CAF Executive Committee or the General Assembly for final approval.

Issues federations are likely to consider include:

• the effect of a less frequent tournament on national-team development and competitive opportunities;
• financial implications, including prize money and the distribution of broadcast and sponsorship revenue;
• relations with clubs, particularly in Europe, over the release of African players;
• fit with the FIFA international match calendar and World Cup qualifying windows.

Ethiopia's position

The Ethiopian Football Federation is among the associations required to respond. It was not immediately clear what position the federation will take, or whether it will consult clubs, coaches and other stakeholders before submitting its choice.

Ethiopia has a historic link to the tournament. It was one of the three nations that took part in the first AFCON in 1957 and won the title in 1962. In recent decades the national team, known as the Walias, has qualified only occasionally, most recently for the 2013 and 2021 editions. For countries in that position, the frequency of the tournament could affect both their sporting ambitions and the revenue that participation brings.

The outcome of the consultation is expected to shape African football's competition calendar for years to come. Addis Gazette will report on the federations' responses and on any decision CAF announces after the deadline.

Source: The Reporter (Amharic)

Picture: The Reporter – Amharic