CAF Introduces Stricter Coaching Licence Requirements For Clubs, National Teams

CAF Introduces Stricter Coaching Licence Requirements For Clubs, National Teams 

By Admin 

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has unveiled a comprehensive overhaul of its coaching regulations, introducing stricter licensing requirements aimed at elevating technical standards across African football, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The newly adopted CAF Coaching Convention will apply to all CAF inter-club competitions, the CAF Women’s Champions League, and every national team operating under CAF’s jurisdiction. The governing body has made compliance mandatory, stating that coaches who do not possess the required certification must regularise their qualifications in line with the new framework.

To ease the transition, CAF has granted a two-season grace period — covering the 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 campaigns — for coaches with valid contracts signed prior to the implementation of the new regulations. During this window, affected coaches are expected to obtain the appropriate licences.

However, the concession does not extend to new appointments. CAF has clarified that any coach hired after the introduction of the policy must meet the stipulated qualification criteria at the time of appointment, with no grace period applicable.

In a significant step toward advancing gender inclusion, CAF has also mandated 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 is designed to boost female representation in technical roles and align African football governance with global development standards.

CAF has warned that non-compliance will attract firm sanctions. Penalties may include denial of access to restricted stadium areas (Zones 1 and 2), refusal of official team registration, exclusion from team activities, and potential additional sporting measures. Severe breaches could be referred to CAF’s judicial bodies for further disciplinary action.

The continent’s highest coaching qualification, the CAF Pro Coaching Licence, will be administered directly by CAF to ensure centralised oversight and uniform implementation.

The new regulations signal CAF’s intent to professionalise coaching structures throughout Africa and enhance the overall quality of football development at both club and national team levels.