Why is AFCON in January

Henry

Jan 11, 2024

Why is AFCON in January? Africa Cup of Nations 2023 midseason tournament timing explained

The roar of the crowd, the electrifying atmosphere, the clash of African football titans – the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is about to ignite Ivory Coast! But for some fans, particularly those accustomed to the European football calendar, the timing might seem puzzling. Why is AFCON disrupting the mid-season club scene and taking center stage in January?

Dodging the Rainy Downpour:

Imagine a downpour threatening to wash away the beautiful game! That's exactly what the Ivorian rainy season, between June and October, could have done to AFCON 2023. To avoid such a scenario, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) made a strategic call – shifting the tournament to January 2024.

"We don't want to run the risk of our top competition being washed out," declared CAF president Patrice Motsepe. This proactive decision ensures smooth sailing for the tournament, prioritizing both player safety and a captivating fan experience.

Beyond the Weather:

But January's allure for AFCON goes beyond just dodging the rain. It's a strategic dance between various factors:

Milder Temperatures: January and February in Africa generally offer pleasant weather, a welcome respite from the scorching heat that can plague some regions. This ensures optimal playing conditions for athletes and a more enjoyable experience for spectators.
League Breaks: The European football leagues often have a mid-season break in January, making it a convenient window for African players to participate in AFCON without major disruptions to their club commitments.
Avoiding Clashes: January also neatly sidesteps any potential clashes with other major international tournaments like the FIFA World Cup or the European Championship, ensuring AFCON gets the undivided attention it deserves.

A Celebration of African Football:

So, while the timing might seem unconventional to some, it's a carefully considered decision that prioritizes player safety, fan experience, and the overall success of the Africa Cup of Nations. AFCON in January is not just about dodging the rain; it's about celebrating the pinnacle of African football on its own terms, free from scheduling conflicts and unmarred by the elements.

Get ready to witness the passion, the skill, and the captivating spirit of African football as AFCON takes center stage in January! It's a tournament that promises to be a true spectacle, a testament to the vibrant talent and unwavering dedication that defines the beautiful game on the African continent.

Africa Cup of Nations 2023 round dates, scheduled in 2024

Hosts Ivory Coast will kick off the opening fixture against Guinea-Bissau on January 13 in Abidjan.

The Round of 16 starts on January 27, with the quarterfinal and semifinals beginning on February 2 and 7 respectively.

Africa Cup of Nations 2023 schedule

Round	Date
Group Stage	January 13-24, 2024
Round of 16	January 27-30, 2024
Quarterfinal	February 2-3, 2024
Semifinal	February 7, 2024
Third place playoff	February 10, 2024
Final	February 11, 2024