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

CAF Weighs Alternative Hosts as Kenya and Uganda Fall Behind on AFCON 2027 Preparations

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is looking into other options for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations after noticing serious setbacks in infrastructure work in Kenya and Uganda. These two countries, along with Tanzania, are slated to co-host the tournament from June 19 to July 17, 2027. Yet, CAF's recent inspections have highlighted incomplete stadiums, insufficient lodging, and overall logistical issues that might jeopardize the event.

Concerns Over Readiness and Potential Replacements

According to BSNSports.com.ng, the delays in Kenya and Uganda have raised alarms within CAF. The organization has started reaching out to other nations such as Morocco, South Africa, and Algeria to serve as backup hosts if East Africa cannot meet the required standards on time. Additionally, Ivory Coast and Egypt are also being considered due to their existing sports infrastructure.

Despite these worries, CAF president Patrice Motsepe has publicly shown faith in the three East African hosts but acknowledged the considerable work left ahead.

History of Hosting Changes at AFCON

CAF’s history includes several relocations of the Africa Cup of Nations when original hosts were unable to fulfill commitments. Past switches include:

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

This pattern shows how CAF frequently steps in to ensure the tournament happens smoothly, often shifting hosting rights when preparations falter.

Time Running Out for East African Hosts

CAF officials plan more inspection visits soon before deciding whether to revoke the hosting rights from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. The 36th AFCON will be a landmark event, marking a return to the CECAFA region for the first time since Ethiopia hosted in 1976. It also represents the last edition held every two years. Unless construction speeds up dramatically, the chance to host might slip away from the East African trio to one of the standby nations.