CAF introduces stringent new coaching license regulations for clubs and national teams

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has implemented a new set of coaching requirements for its Member Associations, enhancing the technical standards across African football.

The recently adopted CAF Coaching Convention will implement regulations across all CAF Inter-club competitions, the CAF Women’s Champions League, and every National Team under CAF’s jurisdiction.

CAF has stated that coaches lacking the necessary certification must promptly adhere to the new licensing standards.

Nonetheless, a transitional window exists for certain individuals.

Coaches who have valid contracts signed prior to the implementation of the new requirements have been provided a two-season grace period — encompassing the 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 campaigns — to secure the required licence.

Conversely, any newly appointed coach is required to fulfill the qualification criteria at the time of hiring. CAF highlighted that there will be no grace period for new appointments.

In a noteworthy initiative to enhance gender inclusion, CAF has established a requirement that in women’s competitions — including the CAF Women’s Champions League — either the Head Coach or Assistant Coach must be a woman.

The directive aims to enhance the involvement of women in technical positions and ensure that African football meets international development benchmarks.

CAF cautioned that non-compliance with the new regulations will result in severe penalties.

These consist of denial of access to restricted stadium areas (Zones 1 and 2), failure to register as official team personnel, exclusion from official team activities, and the possibility of further sporting penalties.

In severe cases, referrals may be made to CAF’s Judicial Bodies for additional disciplinary measures.

The CAF Pro Coaching Licence, the highest coaching certification on the continent, will be organized directly by CAF, guaranteeing centralized oversight and consistent standards.

The new policy indicates CAF’s commitment to enhancing coaching structures throughout Africa and improving the quality of football development at both club and national team levels.