South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe Submit Joint Bid to Host AFCON 2028

Botswana Football Association president and COSAFA president Tariq Babitseng confirmed the bid, saying the three countries have the infrastructure to stage the competition. "We have put in a bid and we are confident with the infrastructure we have, as well as the vision of CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe, who believes all regions should have the opportunity to host AFCON," Babitseng said.

South Africa hosted AFCON in 1996 and became the first African country to stage a FIFA World Cup, in 2010. Botswana and Zimbabwe have less hosting history but see the bid as a chance to accelerate football infrastructure and tourism investment.

CAF is expected to review multiple bids for the 2028 edition before naming a host, weighing stadium readiness, accommodation, transport and security. Babitseng framed the joint bid as consistent with CAF's push for wider geographic representation in hosting duties.