AFCON 2025: Bafana Bafana eye $10 Million prize as CAF boosts rewards

For Bafana Bafana, the stakes at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 in Morocco have never been higher.

Following a CAF Executive Committee meeting, the prize money for the continent’s flagship competition has been raised to a record USD 10 million for the champions.

This represents a significant jump from the $7 million awarded in 2023, when runners-up received $4 million. The increase signals CAF’s determination to make African football financially self-sustaining and competitive with global tournaments.

For South Africa, who last lifted the AFCON trophy in 1996, the news adds extra motivation. Coach Hugo Broos and his squad know that success in Morocco would not only deliver continental glory but also secure one of the most lucrative paydays in African football history.

CAF President Patrice Motsepe has emphasized that the growth will not stop here, with AFCON now rivalling the likes of the UEFA European Championship and Copa América in terms of financial rewards.

This ensures that Africa’s giants, including Bafana Bafana, are rewarded at a level that reflects the tournament’s global viewership and commercial appeal.

The financial uplift extends beyond national teams. The CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup prize pools have also been increased to support the professionalization of African club football, with final figures expected to be announced in January.

For Bafana Bafana, the message is clear: AFCON 2025 is not just about pride and history, but also about competing in a tournament that has become a powerful economic engine for African football.

With the prize now set at $10 million, South Africa’s campaign carries both sporting and financial significance as they aim to return to the summit of African football.