Ethiopia Submits Official Bid to Host AFCON 2028

Ethiopia has officially submitted its bid to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), according to the country's football federation (EFF). The government-backed proposal declares Ethiopia's readiness to host Africa's premier football event. The nation has previously hosted the tournament three times, in 1962, 1968 and 1976.

However, Ethiopia's football infrastructure is reportedly lagging behind other African nations. The country currently possesses only one stadium approved by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), but is set to inaugurate a new international stadium and sports complex in Addis Ababa, which could potentially serve as a venue for the tournament.

Yet, there are concerns about whether Ethiopia has sufficient compliant venues to accommodate a 24-team AFCON across multiple locations.

Ethiopia's qualification record at the AFCON is mixed, with the team having participated in the tournament only three times since their last hosting in 1976. The Walia Ibex, ranked 143rd globally and 43rd in Africa, last won the AFCON title in 1962. Their most recent appearance was in 2021, where they finished at the bottom of their group without securing a single victory.

The African football body, CAF, recently announced that it has received "exciting bids" for the 2028, 2032 and 2036 AFCONs, with the tournament now set to occur every four years following 2028. Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe have already formed a joint bid for the 2028 finals. Morocco, the 2025 hosts, is reportedly not in contention and is focusing instead on preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup co-hosting.

In contrast, Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger - three countries governed by military regimes - have shown interest in co-hosting the 2032 edition. The 2027 AFCON is scheduled to be held in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda from June 19 to July 17, marking East Africa's return as hosts for the first time since 1976.