CAF confirms 24-team format for 2027 AFCON

The Confederation of African Football has confirmed the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations will retain its 24-team format, dismissing recent reports of an expansion to 28 teams. The clarification was made by CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe during a press conference on Wednesday, July 22, and reiterated in an official statement on Thursday, July 23.

The tournament is scheduled to be held from June 19 to July 17, 2027, and will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda under the banner "PAMOJA," a Swahili word meaning "Together." This marks the first time the continental championship will be staged by three nations and its return to East Africa in over five decades. The qualification process is set to begin in September 2026.

During his remarks, Motsepe acknowledged that preparations face challenges but expressed confidence in the host nations. He specifically praised the work of the heads of state in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, predicting the event would be an enormous success. While not detailing the challenges, previous reports have highlighted concerns over stadium construction timelines in Kenya. Government officials stated in May that key projects, including the new...