Claude Le Roy slams CAF over AFCON scheduling shift

Former Ghana coach Claude Le Roy has strongly criticized the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following its decision to change the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) from a biennial to a quadrennial tournament starting after the 2028 edition, which will be co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.

Le Roy’s Criticism

Speaking to journalist Osasu Obayiuwana, Le Roy questioned FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s influence on African football:

“What does Infantino know about anything? What does he know about life? Look at how he has become so close to Donald Trump. It’s sickening.”

He condemned Infantino’s conduct at the AFCON 2025 opening ceremony:

“Football in Africa is under serious attack. It is very wrong to change the AFCON from a two to a four-year event. Look at the way Infantino was acting during the AFCON 2025 opening ceremony, like he owns the place. Can he do this at a UEFA event? When Issa Hayatou was president, these things would never have happened.”

Wider Debate

• CAF president Dr. Patrice Motsepe announced the scheduling change, aligning AFCON with the cycle of other major tournaments like the UEFA European Championship and Copa América.


• The decision has sparked widespread debate, with many fans, players, and stakeholders arguing that the biennial format is crucial for African football’s visibility, development, and economic sustainability.


• Critics fear that reducing AFCON’s frequency could diminish opportunities for African nations to showcase talent and limit the continent’s global football presence.

Context

• AFCON has traditionally been held every two years, making it one of the most consistent continental competitions.


• The shift to a four-year cycle marks a significant structural change in African football, with long-term implications for player exposure, sponsorship, and fan engagement.

Le Roy’s outspoken remarks highlight the tension between CAF’s leadership and traditional custodians of African football, raising questions about governance, external influence, and the future of the continent’s flagship tournament.