African Futsal body unveils ambitious plans for 2026

The Association Africaine de Futsal (AAF) has unveiled an ambitious lineup of tournaments and development programmes for 2026, as it intensifies efforts to grow futsal across Africa and position the continent as a global force in the sport.

The plans were disclosed during a press conference, where AAF Publicity Secretary, Edewor Oputa, outlined a packed calendar featuring youth competitions, school tournaments and international appearances.

According to Oputa, the year will kick off with the AAF Under-17 Futsal International Tournament in Kenya, which will showcase some of Africa’s brightest young talents.

“We are thrilled to kick off the year with our Under-17 Futsal International Tournament in Kenya, which will feature some of the best young talent from across the continent,” Oputa said.

“This is just the beginning of an exciting journey,” Oputa added.

He revealed that the continental body will also participate in the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, where futsal will feature as a side event, while Togo will host the maiden African Futsal Inter-School Tournament later in the year.

“As we prepare to take part in the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and host our inaugural African Futsal Inter-School Tournament in Togo, our focus remains on building a strong foundation for the sport,” he added.

In a major boost to development efforts, Oputa announced that Brazilian futsal icon Falcao will tour three African countries in March this year, mentoring young players and sharing his vast experience.

“We are committed to developing futsal in primary and secondary schools, as well as tertiary institutions and football clubs throughout Africa.

“Our goal is to build African futsal to a global level by 2035,’Oputa stated.

He noted that the AAF is working closely with FIFA, CAF and national football federations to ensure sustainable growth and wider participation across the continent.

The association’s 2026 calendar includes: AAF Under-17 Futsal International Tournament, Kenya (May 2026); Commonwealth Games, Glasgow, Scotland (Futsal side event-July 23 to August 2); AAF African Futsal Inter-School Tournament, Togo (August 2026) and Youth Olympic Games, Senegal (Futsal side event-October 31 to November 13).

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