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CAF Considers Backup Hosts for AFCON 2027 Amid Kenya and Uganda Delays

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is reviewing backup plans for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations as delays in infrastructure development in Kenya and Uganda cast doubt on their readiness. These two countries, along with Tanzania, are set to co-host the tournament scheduled from June 19 to July 17, 2027, but slow progress on stadium construction has raised red flags.

Infrastructure Setbacks Threaten the Event

Concerns about unfinished stadiums, insufficient accommodation, and logistical challenges have emerged following recent CAF inspections. Reports from BSNSports.com.ng highlight fears that Kenya and Uganda may fail to meet the necessary requirements to successfully stage the event alongside Tanzania.

Potential Replacement Hosts Identified

According to French news outlet Le Monde, CAF has approached several nations as contingency hosts. Morocco, South Africa, and Algeria are on standby should the East African nations fall short. Additionally, Ivory Coast and Egypt are also being considered due to their existing facilities and experience hosting large tournaments. Despite these concerns, CAF president Patrice Motsepe remains optimistic about the current hosts but admits considerable work is still needed.

Recurring Challenges for CAF Hosting Rights

CAF has a history of relocating the Africa Cup of Nations when hosts face difficulties. The tournament shifted from Libya to South Africa in 2013, then from Morocco to Equatorial Guinea in 2015, followed by moves from Libya to Gabon in 2017 and from Cameroon to Egypt in 2019. The recent decision to replace Guinea with Morocco for 2025 adds to this pattern of CAF stepping in when preparations lag behind schedule.

Inspections and the Countdown Continue

CAF plans further inspection visits soon to determine if East Africa’s joint bid can stay on track. The 36th edition will be significant, marking the return of the tournament to the CECAFA region for the first time since Ethiopia 1976. This event also represents the last biennial Africa Cup of Nations. If Kenya and Uganda cannot speed up stadium development, their shared hosting dream might be transferred to one of the backup nations.

  • Scheduled Dates: June 19 – July 17, 2027
  • Co-hosts: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania
  • Backup Hosts Contacted: Morocco, South Africa, Algeria, Ivory Coast, Egypt
  • CAF President: Patrice Motsepe
  • Last CECAFA Hosting: Ethiopia 1976

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