Channel 4 Secures Free UK Broadcast Rights for AFCON First Time
The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will be made available for free in the United Kingdom for the first time. Channel 4 has secured the broadcast rights, marking a significant moment for football fans in the region.
Historic Broadcast Rights Acquisition
This announcement was made on Wednesday by Channel 4 in partnership with the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The tournament will take place in Morocco, beginning on December 21, 2025.
Key Details
- Broadcasting Channel: Channel 4
- Tournament Dates: December 21, 2025 – January 18, 2026
- Location: Morocco
- Defending Champions: Ivory Coast
- Final Match Location: Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat
Veron Mosengo-Omba, CAF’s General Secretary, highlighted the historic significance of this agreement. He noted that it allows AFCON to reach every household in the UK for the first time, enhancing the tournament’s global stature.
Previous Broadcasts
In recent years, AFCON has been broadcast in the UK primarily by Sky Sports. In 2023 and 2024, Sky Sports held the exclusive rights, while the BBC provided coverage for several key matches during the 2022 tournament.
This new partnership with Channel 4 underscores the growing interest in African football. It positions AFCON as a highly desirable event in the football calendar, appealing to a wider audience.
With a rich history of broadcasting various sporting events, Channel 4 is prepared to enhance the viewing experience for fans, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the tournament’s exciting matches.
