Why does Rio Ferdinand want European leagues to pause for AFCON?

Rio Ferdinand believes pausing leagues would give the Africa Cup of Nations the global respect it deserves, similar to the Euros and Copa América.

When is the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations taking place?

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is currently ongoing in Morocco, having started on December 21, 2025, and concluding on January 18, 2026.

What changes are planned for future AFCON tournaments?

After the 2027 AFCON, future editions will be held every four years, moving away from mid-season European league interruptions.

Home / Sports / Ferdinand: AFCON deserves prime time, not league clashes

Ferdinand: AFCON deserves prime time, not league clashes

4 Jan

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Summary

Rio Ferdinand urges European leagues to pause for AFCON.
He highlights African players' significant impact on elite leagues.
AFCON should align with Euros and Copa América scheduling.

Ferdinand: AFCON deserves prime time, not league clashes

Former Manchester United captain Rio Ferdinand has urged European and other international football leagues to observe a break during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Ferdinand highlighted the profound impact of African players on the global game, noting their prominence in elite European leagues and the Champions League.

He argues that the departure of these key players significantly diminishes the quality of domestic leagues such as the Premier League and La Liga. Ferdinand questioned why AFCON is not scheduled concurrently with major tournaments like the European Championship and Copa América, which are held during periods when most leagues are off.

Meanwhile, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe announced that starting after the 2027 edition, AFCON will be held every four years. The current 2025 AFCON in Morocco commenced on December 21, 2025, and is scheduled to conclude on January 18, 2026.