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

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is looking into backup options for the Africa Cup of Nations 2027 as concerns rise over slow infrastructure development in Kenya and Uganda. Both countries, set to co-host alongside Tanzania, face challenges that could jeopardize the tournament scheduled from June 19 to July 17, 2027.

Slow Progress Threatens Hosting Plans

According to BSNSports.com.ng, CAF's recent inspections uncovered incomplete stadiums, insufficient accommodation facilities, and other logistical issues across Kenya and Uganda. These setbacks put the joint hosting at risk, prompting the governing body to explore alternatives.

Potential Replacement Hosts Identified

French media outlet Le Monde reported that CAF has reached out to nations such as Morocco, South Africa, and Algeria as potential standbys. Ivory Coast and Egypt are also being considered due to their established football infrastructure. Despite these moves, CAF president Patrice Motsepe remains optimistic about the East African hosts but acknowledges the significant work still needed.

CAF's History of Relocating the Tournament

This is not the first time CAF has shifted hosting rights due to preparedness issues. Previous relocations include:

• 2013: From Libya to South Africa
• 2015: From Morocco to Equatorial Guinea
• 2017: From Libya to Gabon
• 2019: From Cameroon to Egypt
• 2025: From Guinea to Morocco

These examples highlight CAF’s history of intervening when hosts fall behind schedule.

Upcoming Inspections and Pressure on Organizers

CAF officials plan additional site visits soon to assess progress before deciding if East Africa will retain hosting duties. The 36th edition is notable for returning to the CECAFA region for the first time since Ethiopia 1976 and will be the last biennial tournament. If Kenya and Uganda cannot speed up construction, the tournament may shift to one of the standby nations, ending the three-nation bid prematurely.