FIFA President Confirms Kick-Off Date for New African Football League

Eight-Team African Football League to Begin in October

FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced during the Confederation of Africa Football’s (CAF) General Assembly that the new eight-team African Football League will commence on October 20. The competition has been scaled down from the initial proposal of 24 teams, but Infantino expressed the intention to expand it in the future. He emphasized the need to invest in African club football alongside national team football for the growth of the sport on the continent.

Participating Teams and Competition Format

While the participating teams have not been formally confirmed by CAF, sources have indicated that the eight teams are likely to include Mamelodi Sundowns from South Africa, Petro Atletico from Angola, TP Mazembe from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Al Ahly from Egypt, Horoya from Guinea, Wydad Casablanca from Morocco, Simba from Tanzania, and Esperance from Tunisia. The competition will run simultaneously with CAF’s Champions League and is not intended to replace it.

Details and Solidarity Fund

Specifics regarding broadcasters, sponsors, logistics, and prize money distribution remain undisclosed at this stage. Initially, CAF had promised $100 million in prize money, with $11.5 million allocated to the winner. A proposed solidarity fund of $1 million per year for each of CAF’s 54 member associations for football development purposes may also be subject to revision. CAF President Patrice Motsepe emphasized the importance of improving African football’s appeal, commercial viability, and sustainability, urging increased investment from both association presidents and governments across the continent.