CAF Sets Stage for 2026/27 Interclub Season with Preliminary Round Draws
The road to continental glory is about to begin as the Confederation of African Football (CAF) prepares to host the preliminary round draws for the 2026/27 CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup. Scheduled for Thursday, 6 August 2026, the draws will take place at CAF headquarters in Cairo, Egypt, marking the official start of Africa’s premier club competitions.
The CAF Confederation Cup draw will begin at 14h00 Cairo time (11h00 GMT / 13h00 SA Time), followed by the CAF Champions League draw at 15h00 Cairo time (12h00 GMT / 14h00 SA Time). Both events will be broadcast live on CAF TV, giving fans across Africa and beyond the chance to follow the opening chapter of another thrilling interclub season.
These draws are more than just fixtures; they represent opportunity. Clubs from every corner of the continent will discover their first opponents, setting the tone for campaigns that could define their year. For smaller sides, the preliminary rounds offer a chance to upset giants, while established clubs will be eager to assert dominance early.
CAF has confirmed significant prize money for the competitions. The Champions League winners will receive USD 6 million, while the Confederation Cup champions will earn USD 4 million. These figures underline CAF’s commitment to rewarding excellence and elevating the financial stakes of African football.
In addition, clubs eliminated in the preliminary rounds will each receive a solidarity payment of USD 100,000. This initiative reflects CAF’s investment in supporting participating teams, ensuring that even those who exit early benefit from involvement in continental competition.
The announcement also provides clarity for clubs preparing their squads and logistics. With fixtures spread across diverse regions, travel and scheduling will play a crucial role in shaping early-season momentum. Teams will be eager to secure favorable pairings that minimize fatigue while maximizing their chances of progression.
Fans will be watching closely, particularly supporters of clubs with strong continental pedigrees such as Al Ahly, Esperance, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Orlando Pirates. Each will be aiming to add another chapter to their storied histories.
As anticipation builds, the preliminary round draws mark the beginning of a journey that will culminate in crowning Africa’s finest clubs. With prize money, prestige, and continental glory at stake, the 2026/27 CAF Interclub season promises to deliver unforgettable football moments.