Patrice Motsepe, President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), has expressed confidence in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania’s ability to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), despite challenges raised by Morocco’s high standards following its successful hosting of the 2025 edition.
CAF’s Confidence in East Africa
Motsepe acknowledged that Morocco had set a high bar with its world-class stadiums and top-tier football during AFCON 2025. However, he emphasized that the East African trio, which co-hosted the African Nations Championship in 2025, is fully prepared for the challenge. The 2027 tournament will be the first AFCON hosted in East Africa since Ethiopia’s 1976 edition.
“We have no intention of taking the competition away from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania,” Motsepe stated, dismissing doubts about the region’s readiness. He cited the region’s track record in hosting recent competitions, despite delays caused by necessary infrastructure upgrades. Motsepe also noted that the countries’ joint hosting of the 2025 African Nations Championship was a key indicator of their growing capacity.
A Historic AFCON
The 2027 edition will be groundbreaking, not only for its location but also as the first to take place every four years, following CAF’s recent decision to alter the tournament’s scheduling. Motsepe reassured that the decision to extend the gap between tournaments was made independently of pressures from FIFA or European clubs, emphasizing Africa’s desire to lead its football decisions.
As preparations for the tournament continue, the eyes of the African football community will remain focused on East Africa, hoping for a tournament that matches the expectations set by Morocco’s success.
