The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is considering expanding the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to 28 teams starting with the 2028 edition. This proposal, highlighted by CAF President Patrice Motsepe, could transform the landscape of African football by offering increased opportunities for nations on the continent to participate in the prestigious competition.
The decision was discussed at a CAF meeting held in Cairo on Sunday, March 29, 2026. The idea of a 28-team AFCON represents a significant evolution for the tournament, which had already expanded in 2019, increasing from 16 to 24 participants.
The expansion to 28 teams could allow nations that have never had the opportunity to shine on the continental stage to qualify for the final phase. This could not only boost football in those countries but also bring a new dimension to the competition in terms of diversity and competitiveness.
An expanded AFCON could also have implications for the tournament format, potentially with more groups and a longer knockout stage. Qualifications could also be reviewed to account for the increased number of participants. CAF will need to carefully study these aspects to ensure that the expansion is done fairly and beneficially for all stakeholders.
If this reform is adopted, it could redefine the balance of power in African football. Traditionally absent teams could seize this opportunity to reveal themselves, while established nations will have to redouble their efforts to maintain their dominant position. The 2028 edition of AFCON could thus mark the beginning of a new era for African football.
The potential impact on the infrastructure of host countries is also to be considered. Hosting a 28-team AFCON could require greater investment in stadiums, training grounds and hospitality infrastructure. This could encourage more countries to position themselves as candidates for organization, thus stimulating the development of football across the continent.
The announcement of this potential reform is already generating many reactions within the African football community. Some see it as an opportunity to democratize access to the competition, while others question the logistical and organizational challenges it could create. CAF will need to take these different perspectives into account to make an informed decision.
By increasing the number of participants, CAF could also increase the commercial appeal of AFCON, attracting more sponsors and broadcasters. This could generate additional revenue that could be reinvested in grassroots football development, thus contributing to the sustainable growth of the sport on the continent. The final decision of CAF is therefore eagerly awaited by all African football stakeholders.
The expansion of AFCON to 28 teams could provide a platform for more African talents, allowing them to become known on the international stage and attract the attention of European clubs. This could also strengthen national teams by giving them access to a larger and more diverse pool of players.
