The Egyptian FA had requested that the top 12 ranked member associations each be allocated three places in the Champions League instead of the current two. CAF acknowledged receipt of the proposal, but its Competitions Department ruled that the change cannot be implemented for the forthcoming campaign.
Reasons for Rejection
According to details of CAF’s response, the Competitions Department cited three key factors:
- Time constraints preventing any structural adjustments at this late stage.
- Competition regulations for both the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup cannot be amended at this point.
- Member associations were already informed of their participation quotas last month.
CAF’s Competitions Department has made clear that it does not oppose the proposal in principle and has indicated the idea could be considered for the 2027/28 season onwards.
Regional Divide
The proposal is understood to have received support from some CAF Executive Committee members from North Africa. However, several members from Central and West Africa have yet to be fully briefed on the matter.
As things stand, the issue is considered closed for the 2026/27 season. Egypt will continue with its standard allocation of two clubs in the Champions League — currently filled by Zamalek (champions) and Pyramids FC (runners-up) — while Al Ahly prepare for the Confederation Cup.