The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has written to its member associations, asking them to indicate whether the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) should continue to be held every two years or move to a four-year cycle.

The member associations have until Wednesday to submit their positions, with early indications suggesting that many may favour retaining the tournament’s current two-year schedule.

Supporters of a biennial AFCON have highlighted several potential benefits for African football, including increased hosting opportunities, economic growth and greater exposure for players.

Holding the tournament every two years would allow more African countries to host the continent’s flagship football competition, providing opportunities to develop infrastructure, upgrade stadiums and improve sporting facilities.

The arrangement could also stimulate economic activity through tourism, investment and job creation, while increasing African football’s visibility and commercial value.

For players, a two-year cycle offers more frequent opportunities to represent their countries at the continent’s biggest football tournament.

Proponents also argue that hosting AFCON can help countries accelerate football development and improve sports infrastructure.

However, the consultation raises a fundamental question about the competition’s future: should African football maintain the tradition of staging AFCON every two years or adopt a four-year cycle?

The positions submitted by CAF’s member associations could play a significant role in shaping the tournament’s future format.