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

The Confederation of African Football is looking into backup options for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations after Kenya and Uganda's infrastructure projects faced serious delays. These two countries, along with Tanzania, were set to co-host the tournament from June 19 to July 17, 2027.

Concerns Over Stadium Readiness and Logistics

Recent inspections highlighted incomplete stadium construction, insufficient accommodation facilities, and broader logistical challenges in Kenya and Uganda. These issues have raised doubts about their ability to meet the tournament's strict deadlines.

Backup Hosts Under Consideration

Reports from Le Monde indicate that CAF has reached out to Morocco, South Africa, and Algeria as potential replacements if Kenya and Uganda cannot deliver on time. Ivory Coast and Egypt are also being considered given their more established sports infrastructure. Despite these concerns, CAF president Patrice Motsepe remains hopeful about the original hosts but admits that much work remains.

A History of Hosting Shifts

This would not be the first time CAF has changed hosts at the last minute. The tournament shifted from Libya to South Africa in 2013, Morocco to Equatorial Guinea in 2015, Libya to Gabon in 2017, and Cameroon to Egypt in 2019. Most recently, Guinea was replaced by Morocco for the 2025 edition due to preparation delays.

Upcoming Inspections and Pressure on Organizers

CAF officials plan further inspections soon to determine if Kenya and Uganda’s preparations have improved enough to keep the hosting rights. The 36th AFCON will be significant as it marks the competition's return to the CECAFA region for the first time since Ethiopia hosted in 1976. Without a swift acceleration in building efforts, this East African joint bid might be passed to a standby nation.