The organization of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2027), initially awarded to Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, is being questioned due to significant delays in infrastructure work. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is now seriously considering relocating the event, with South Africa being a credible replacement option.
According to the newspaper Le Monde, preparations in the three host countries are significantly behind schedule, raising concerns among the governing bodies of African football. CAF has reportedly sent a warning to the three countries, pointing out that the stadiums do not yet meet the required standards and that the infrastructure does not conform to specifications. Faced with these challenges, CAF is actively exploring the possibility of moving the competition to ensure that the schedule and organizational requirements are met.
South Africa, with its experience in hosting major sporting events, including the 2010 FIFA World Cup, appears as an ideal candidate to take over the organization of the tournament. The country already has the necessary infrastructure to quickly meet CAF's requirements. However, it is important to note that no official decision has yet been announced.
Despite the concerns, CAF President Patrice Motsepe has stated that allegations regarding a possible postponement of AFCON 2027 are unfounded and that the tournament will take place in the three East African countries as planned. Luxolo September, CAF's media officer, also stated that there was no intention to move the tournament, stressing that this represented an exciting opportunity for CAF to expand into new markets in East Africa. CAF continues to work closely with Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, as well as the governments of the three host countries, to prepare for the tournament.
The situation therefore remains uncertain, with conflicting signals coming from CAF. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania will be able to overcome the current obstacles and host AFCON 2027, or whether South Africa will have to step in to ensure the smooth running of the competition. CAF will conduct further inspections in August and December to assess progress.
