CAF president demands urgency from Afcon 2027 co-hosts as stadium deadlines loom
Confederation of African Football president Patrice Motsepe has stressed that the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations will not be postponed, urging Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda to speed up infrastructure work. He inspected venues in Kenya, including the new Talanta Stadium, and said facilities must be world-class. The tournament is scheduled to open on 19 June 2027.
Motsepe's inspection pinpointed specific deficiencies at Nairobi's Kasarani Stadium, including an unlaid playing surface, incomplete broadcast cabling, floodlights, and sky boxes. The venue also requires reconfiguration for VIP and head-of-state seating. Notably, Kasarani is also slated to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships, adding further pressure to its renovation timeline.
The schedule is tight: Kenya's sports cabinet secretary aims to conclude all work by December to enable test matches, with Motsepe returning for a final assessment in January. Recent Caf events have faced postponements, such as this year's Women's Africa Cup of Nations, which shifted from March to July. The tournament marks East Africa's first hosting in 51 years, involving Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
The outcome of these preparations could significantly affect public trust in regional governance and the economic benefits of hosting major events. Delays may strain local communities through prolonged construction disruptions and budget reallocations, while a smooth delivery could boost tourism, infrastructure legacy, and national pride across East Africa. The scrutiny on stadium readiness also may influence future continental bids and the perceived reliability of African football hosts.