Ivory Coast – In a move hailed as a significant boost for African football, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced a record-breaking prize money structure for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), set to kick off in Ivory Coast on January 13th. The tournament champions will walk away with a staggering $7 million, a 40% increase compared to the previous edition won by Senegal in 2022.
This substantial prize money hike reflects CAF’s commitment to elevating the prestige and financial rewards of the continent’s premier footballing event. Runners-up in the competition will be awarded $4 million, while losing semi-finalists and quarter-finalists will receive $2.5 million and $1.3 million respectively.
Beyond the headline-grabbing figures, the increased prize money is expected to have a broader positive impact on the African football landscape. It aims to motivate players, generate greater interest among fans, and potentially attract increased sponsorship and investment to the tournament.
The 2024 AFCON promises to be a spectacle, with 24 nations – including record seven-time champions Egypt and hosts Ivory Coast – vying for glory on Ivorian soil. The tournament opener on January 13th will see the Elephants of Ivory Coast, aiming for their third AFCON title, take on Guinea-Bissau at the 60,000-capacity Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan.
With a heightened financial allure and an exciting line-up of participating teams, the stage is set for a captivating edition of the Africa Cup of Nations. The tournament promises to showcase the continent’s vibrant footballing talent and offer a thrilling month of sporting combat on Ivorian soil.
