By: Kwame Bediako
Former head coach of Cameroon, Ghana and Senegal, Claude Le Roy has unleashed a fierce critique of the decision to shift the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) from a biennial to a quadrennial event, calling it a “distressing mistake” that hampers continental development.
The legendary French tactician, who led Cameroon to AFCON glory in 1988, argues the change prioritizes FIFA’s agenda over Africa’s needs.
“Do you not want Africa to develop? Do you not want countries to build stadiums, training grounds and highways every two years?” Le Roy questioned passionately.
He highlighted how the every-two-years format spurred infrastructure booms across sub-Saharan Africa, driving progress through hosting duties and economic ripple effects.
Le Roy slammed the new schedule as detrimental, insisting it serves FIFA by clearing space for “completely meaningless competitions” that overburden players.
He specifically ridiculed the FIFA Arab Cup, decrying its higher prize money than AFCON and questioning why journalists haven’t pushed back harder against such priorities.
The outspoken coach’s remarks reignite debate around CAF’s decision to align AFCON with World Cup cycles starting in 2028, amid concerns it dilutes Africa’s premier tournament.
