The Confederation of African Football (CAF) officially announced the cancellation of the African Nations Championship (CHAN), ending a 17-year run for the continent’s premier tournament for domestic-based players.
Speaking at a press briefing in Morocco, CAF President Patrice Motsepe confirmed that the competition will be removed from the continental calendar. Launched in 2009, CHAN was designed to showcase talent playing within African domestic leagues, offering “local heroes” a rare international stage to secure professional opportunities abroad.
Financial and Calendar Shifts
Despite its popular appeal, Motsepe revealed the tournament had become a “spectacular money loser.” Limited sponsorship and broadcasting revenue failed to cover rising operational costs.
The decision is also part of a broader restructuring of African football. To protect the financial health of the sport and streamline the schedule, CAF is moving the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to a four-year cycle and introducing a new biennial “African Nations League” as a replacement for CHAN.
A Historic Legacy
Morocco cemented its place as the tournament’s most successful nation in the final edition, held in August 2025. Co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, the finale saw the Atlas Lions defeat Madagascar 3-2 to claim a record third title.
CHAN leaves behind a rich history of champions:
- Morocco: 3 titles (2018, 2020, 2025)
- DR Congo: 2 titles (2009, 2016)
- Tunisia: 1 title (2011)
- Libya: 1 title (2014)
- Senegal: 1 title (2022)
While CHAN concludes, CAF reaffirmed its commitment to local talent. The federation plans to focus on strengthening domestic leagues and grassroots initiatives, ensuring that the void left by the tournament is filled by the new Nations League format.
For millions of fans, the announcement marks a bittersweet farewell to a beloved platform for local stars, but one that CAF insists is a necessary step toward a more sustainable future for African football.
