2027 Africa Cup of Nations Faces Potential Postponement Amid Host Nation Readiness Doubts
The Confederation of African Football is poised to consider a significant delay for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, with growing concerns over the preparedness of the designated host nations Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. According to sources within the organization, the tournament could be pushed back to 2028, a move that would effectively cancel the edition scheduled for that year and reshape the continental football calendar.
Infrastructure Challenges Threaten Tournament Timeline
Multiple executive committee members have expressed serious reservations about the infrastructure capabilities across the ten cities slated to host matches in the three East African countries. These doubts stem from recent logistical issues observed during the Africa Nations Championships, where challenges with ticketing systems and stadium security measures were evident in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
The expanded 24-team format presents additional complications for nations still developing their sporting facilities. Caf President Patrice Motsepe had previously defended the selection of these countries, emphasizing the need to foster football development across the continent rather than limiting tournaments to nations with established infrastructure.
Calendar Complications and International Implications
Further complicating matters is the crowded international football schedule, particularly with up to ten African teams potentially participating in this summer's World Cup. This creates significant challenges for completing the necessary qualification matches within the existing timeframe.
The proposed postponement would align with Caf's broader strategic shift toward a four-year tournament cycle beginning in 2028, replacing the current biennial format. This change would facilitate the introduction of a new African Nations League competition planned for 2029, which the confederation hopes will become its primary revenue source.
Women's Tournament Also Faces Uncertainty
Parallel concerns surround the upcoming Women's Africa Cup of Nations, with Morocco reportedly considering withdrawal as host nation just weeks before the tournament's scheduled start. South Africa has indicated willingness to serve as an alternative host if needed, though neither Moroccan football authorities nor Caf have made any official announcements regarding potential relocation.
Both the men's and women's tournament issues are expected to dominate discussions during Friday's executive committee meeting in Dar es Salaam, where members will also address administrative questions regarding the tenure of Caf's general secretary.
The potential postponement represents a significant setback for East African football development and raises broader questions about tournament hosting requirements across the continent. If confirmed, the delay would extend Senegal's reign as African champions beyond the typical two-year period, maintaining their trophy hold until at least 2028.
