FIFA president Gianni Infantino has called for the Africa Cup of Nations to be played every four years rather than every two at present.

Rather than hurt earnings from the tournament, Infantino told a conference in Morocco on Saturday that revenue could increase six-fold if it became a must-see event ‘not only for Africa, but for the whole world.’ 

European clubs are likely to favour Infantino's idea. They have long lamented losing players to the tournament every two years - especially as it is usually hosted in January - the middle of the European season.

Last year's event in Egypt was moved to June and July but the next one in Cameroon in 2021 reverts to January. The European Championship in contrast is held every four years and always starts once most European leagues have finished in June.

Infantino also said Africa had to fight to close the ever-growing gap as Europe dominates world football. None of the five African sides made it past the group stage at the 2018 World Cup.

‘There is a feeling that Africa is going backwards,’ the 49-year-old Swiss said, adding that FIFA should do more to help Africa in terms of referees, football infrastructure and competitions.


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