CAF launches bidding process to host the 2028, 2032 and 2036 Africa Cup of Nations

Saturday 04 July 2026 - 11:30
CAF launches bidding process to host the 2028, 2032 and 2036 Africa Cup of Nations
By: Sahili Aya
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The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially opened the bidding process for the host rights of the 2028, 2032 and 2036 editions of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), inviting its 54 member associations to submit expressions of interest and formal candidature dossiers.

The initiative marks the beginning of a new selection cycle aimed at identifying future host nations through a standardized evaluation framework designed to promote transparency and good governance.

CAF introduces structured selection framework

According to CAF, the bidding process has been developed in collaboration with PwC and a team of independent technical, financial and legal advisers.

The governing body said the framework is intended to ensure that host country evaluations are conducted through a transparent, credible and ethical process aligned with internationally recognized standards.

The assessment will examine candidate nations' ability to meet the sporting, infrastructure, financial and organizational requirements needed to stage Africa's flagship football tournament.

AFCON calendar continues to evolve

The announcement follows preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda from June 19 to July 17, 2027.

CAF also confirmed that, beginning in 2028, it plans to organize a major senior men's national team competition every year, except during FIFA World Cup years, further expanding the continental football calendar.

The move is expected to provide more regular high-level international competition for African national teams.

Africa's premier football tournament continues to grow

The Africa Cup of Nations remains the continent's most prestigious football competition and has experienced significant growth in global visibility.

CAF says the tournament attracts an estimated 3.2 billion television viewers worldwide and generates around 6 billion digital views across online platforms, reflecting its expanding international audience and commercial appeal.

The launch of the bidding process for the next three editions is expected to intensify competition among African nations seeking to host one of the world's largest international football events.



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