The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially opened the bidding process for the hosting rights of the 2028, 2032 and 2036 editions of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
CAF has invited all 54 Member Associations across the continent to submit bids to stage Africa’s biggest football tournament, as the governing body looks to secure hosts for the next three editions of its flagship competition.
The announcement marks the beginning of a transparent selection process aimed at identifying countries capable of delivering world-class tournaments.
Transparent Bidding Process
CAF revealed that it has developed a comprehensive bidding framework with the support of independent expert adviser PwC, alongside technical, financial and legal consultants.
According to CAF, the framework has been designed to ensure the evaluation and selection process is transparent, credible and aligned with international best practices.
The governing body believes the new system will provide equal opportunities for interested nations while maintaining high standards for hosting the continent’s premier football competition.
AFCON Continues to Grow
The Africa Cup of Nations remains the biggest sporting event on the African continent and continues to expand its global reach.
CAF says the tournament attracts more than 3.2 billion television viewers worldwide and generates over 6 billion digital views, making it one of the world’s most-watched sporting events.
The continued growth of the competition has increased interest among African nations seeking to host the prestigious tournament.
Focus Turns to Future Editions
Before attention shifts to the future hosts, East Africa will stage the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations PAMOJA 2027, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda from 19 June to 17 July 2027.
The tournament will mark the first time the three neighbouring nations jointly host Africa’s biggest football spectacle.
CAF also confirmed that, moving forward, a senior men’s national team competition will be staged every year except during FIFA World Cup years.
More Announcements Expected
CAF says additional announcements regarding its national team competitions will be made in due course as preparations continue for future continental tournaments.
With the bidding process now officially underway, attention will turn to which African nations express interest in hosting the 2028, 2032 and 2036 AFCON tournaments.
Conclusion
The launch of the bidding process represents another important step in CAF’s long-term vision to strengthen African football through world-class tournaments and improved infrastructure.
Countries interested in hosting now have the opportunity to showcase their ability to deliver one of the biggest sporting events on the continent.
