CAF President Patrice Motsepe announced Sunday that the Africa Cup of Nations will expand from 24 to 28 teams. The surprise announcement came after an executive committee meeting.
Motsepe said the move demonstrates CAF's commitment to world-class football, bringing the best African players back to compete on the continent. He did not specify the new format or when the change will be implemented.
The tournament has featured 24 teams since 2019, after expanding from 16. Motsepe confirmed the 2027 finals will proceed as planned in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
He also announced a new annual Nations League starting in 2029, with a 16-team final every two years. The AFCON will shift to a four-year cycle after a tournament in 2028.
"We have to stop this thing of African fixtures not being predictable, consistent and reliable," Motsepe said. "We must develop football in East Africa, which is an area of much potential."