CAF Considers Backup Hosts for AFCON 2027 Amid Kenya and Uganda Infrastructure Setbacks

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is evaluating backup hosting options for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations as concerns grow over slow infrastructure progress in Kenya and Uganda. These two countries, alongside Tanzania, were originally set to co-host the tournament in June and July 2027, but delays in stadium construction and other key facilities have raised alarms within CAF.

Infrastructure Problems Cast Doubt on East African Hosts

Reports from BSNSports.com.ng highlight that CAF's recent inspections uncovered major issues including unfinished stadiums, insufficient accommodation, and overall logistical challenges across Kenya and Uganda. These problems put the tournament's schedule at risk, prompting CAF to explore contingency plans.

Potential Standby Hosts Under Consideration

According to French media outlet Le Monde, CAF has reached out to countries like Morocco, South Africa, and Algeria as potential replacements should the original hosts not meet deadlines. Additionally, Ivory Coast and Egypt are also being monitored due to their ready infrastructure. Despite these alternatives, CAF president Patrice Motsepe remains hopeful about the East African nations but acknowledges significant work is still needed.

CAF’s History of Changing Hosts Due to Preparation Issues

CAF has frequently shifted hosting rights in recent years when organizers failed to prepare on time. The tournament moved from Libya to South Africa in 2013, then from Morocco to Equatorial Guinea in 2015, from Libya to Gabon in 2017, and finally from Cameroon to Egypt in 2019. The replacement of Guinea by Morocco for the 2025 event further shows CAF’s readiness to intervene when deadlines aren’t met.

Upcoming Inspections and Pressure on East African Hosts

CAF officials plan additional evaluations in the next few months to determine if Kenya and Uganda can fulfill their hosting duties. The 36th edition of AFCON is especially significant as it returns to the CECAFA region for the first time since Ethiopia 1976. If construction does not speed up, the joint East African bid could be replaced by one of the standby hosts.