Motsepe Affirms East Africa as Sole Host for AFCON 2027, Dismisses 'Plan B'

Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe has firmly dismissed any notions of relocating the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations from its East African hosts. Speaking in Kenya during an assessment tour, Motsepe stated clearly that there is no ‘Plan B’ or ‘Plan C’ for the tournament.

His remarks come amid growing concerns about the pace of infrastructure development in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, the joint hosts. Reports have questioned whether the host nations will be ready in time, particularly regarding stadium upgrades and meeting CAF’s stringent Category 4 standards.

Motsepe acknowledged that some preparations are behind schedule but insisted that CAF’s approach will be to collaborate with the host nations to address these issues. He dismissed media reports suggesting alternative plans as potential misinformation.

“We are going to work very hard in Tanzania,” Motsepe stated, indicating he would convey the same message to Uganda and Kenya. The CAF president emphasized that the focus should be on identifying current gaps and implementing solutions swiftly.

Despite the challenges, Motsepe expressed increased confidence after receiving comprehensive reports on the ongoing preparations. He plans a final assessment visit to Tanzania in January next year.

This will be the first AFCON tournament to be co-hosted by three nations. Proposed venues include Kenya’s new Talanta Sports Stadium, Uganda’s Hoima Sports Stadium, and Tanzania’s Samia Suluhu Hassan Stadium, among other facilities undergoing upgrades.

Source: Nile Post