CAF’s reforms have ignited a firestorm

A SERIES of reform measures aimed at reshaping the continent’s football landscape has sent ripples through African football.

- HERMAN GIBBS

Over the weekend, Patrice Motsepe, the President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), unveiled these reforms at a press conference in Morocco, just one day before the kickoff of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

These reforms have sparked widespread criticism, particularly from former players and football enthusiasts who claim that CAF prioritise European interests at the expense of Africa's football development.

The primary reform was to move AFCON to a four-year cycle, rather than the customary two-year cycle.

Furthermore, he announced the cancellation of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in favour of a new, eagerly anticipated competition: the African Nations League, set to launch after 2027.

This new format aims to mirror Europe’s Nations League, promising more competitive matches and enhancing the commercial value and global visibility of African football.