Particle.news
Download on the App Store

AFCON Opens in Morocco as CAF Switches to Four-Year Cycle and Launches Nations League

FIFA shortened the player-release window to December 15, compressing preparation for teams.

Overview

  • The 24-team tournament runs from December 21 to January 18 across Rabat, Casablanca, Tangier, Marrakech, Agadir and Fes, opening with Morocco vs Comoros in Rabat.
  • CAF president Patrice Motsepe confirmed AFCON will move to a four-year cycle after an additional 2028 edition, with the 2027 finals going ahead in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
  • A new African Nations League is slated to begin after the 2029 Club World Cup, initially using regionalized groups in September and October with finals in November.
  • Motsepe said the AFCON 2025 champions will receive $10 million in prize money, up from $7 million awarded in 2024.
  • The calendar overhaul seeks better alignment with expanded global club competitions, as this AFCON shifts into December–January and coaches highlight reduced preparation time.