This edition of AFCON lived up to expectations, fulfilling CAF President Patrice Motsepe’s optimism expressed during the opening ceremony that it would be the best so far.
At the Stade Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan last Sunday, mixed emotions filled the air as the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire clinched the AFCON 2023 trophy with a 2-1 victory over Nigeria, marking the end of a thrilling tournament.
Before the final, Motsepe mentioned in a press conference that nearly 2 billion people had tuned in to watch AFCON 2023, attributing the rise in viewership to broader broadcast rights, media coverage, commercial partnerships, and social media influence. CAF had 17 commercial partners, and matches were broadcast in about 180 countries through various broadcasters.
Compared with AFCON 2021, the estimated viewership for AFCON 2023 saw an increase of over 300%, with projections of around $75 million in sponsorship revenue.
The champions, Ivory Coast, are set to receive USD 7,000,000, and the overall prize money was increased by 40%. The tournament also had a significant impact on social media, with some users earning a share of ad revenue from sponsored posts.
AFCON 2023 was a success both on and off the field, with CAF receiving commendation for organizing a splendid tournament.
