The Confederation of Football (CAF) has officially declared that the champion of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Côte d’Ivoire 2023 will now receive $7 million, reflecting a substantial 40% increase in the prize money for the prestigious competition. This announcement comes as part of CAF’s ongoing efforts to elevate the stature of African football.
Under the revised prize distribution, the runner-up of the AFCON will be awarded $4 million, providing an additional incentive for teams reaching the final stages of the tournament. Each of the two semi-finalists will receive $2.5 million, while the four quarter-finalists will be granted $1.3 million each.
This decision follows a previous adjustment in September 2023, where CAF increased the AFCON prize money from $4.5 million to $5 million. Additionally, the second runner-up saw an increase from $2.5 million to $2.75 million.
Dr. Patrice Motsepe, the President of CAF, expressed satisfaction with the progress made in enhancing the prize money for AFCON and other major competitions under CAF’s jurisdiction.
Dr. Motsepe stated, “CAF has made significant progress over the past two years in increasing the Prize Money of the AFCON and all its other major competitions.”
Highlighting the positive impact of the prize money increase, Dr. Motsepe emphasized its potential to contribute to football development. He said, “I am confident that a portion of the Prize Money will contribute to developing football and also benefit all the football stakeholders, as well as assist our Member Associations with their administrations.”
As Africa anticipates the AFCON 2023 in Côte d’Ivoire, this significant boost in prize money adds an extra layer of excitement and motivation for participating teams, emphasizing CAF’s commitment to fostering football excellence on the continent.