Mali head coach Tom Saintfiet has expressed his disappointment over CAF’s decision to move the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to a four-year cycle.
Earlier this year, Confederation of African Football (CAF) president Dr Patrice Motsepe announced that, starting from the 2028 edition, AFCON would be held every four years, alongside the launch of a new Nations League.
The change is intended to align Africa’s premier tournament with other major competitions, such as the UEFA European Championship.
Speaking ahead of Mali’s second Group stage match against Morocco, Saintfiet did not hold back, calling the move “deeply troubling.”
“I’m shocked with it, very disappointed. It’s all instructed by the big people in UEFA, the big clubs from the five leagues, and also by FIFA, and that makes me so sad.
“I’m sad about that, and I hope the love for Africa would win out over the pressure of Europe.
Saintfiet added that the new cycle disregards the continent’s football heritage.
“We fight so long to get respected in Africa, for African people and Africa’s own identity to get respected, but then to listen to Europe to change your history, a 68-year history, for financial reasons…I think we disrespect [Africa] by going to four years,” he added.
On the field, Mali opened their 2025 AFCON campaign with a 1-1 draw against Zambia.
