Motsepe, president of the CAF, says 2027 Preparations for the Afcon are behind schedule

Patrice Motsepe, the head of the Confederation of African Football (Caf), acknowledges that the preparations for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania are not on track. The South African notes that some areas are falling behind, yet he maintains a hopeful outlook that they will be finished in time for the continental event. “We will collaborate, and in the areas where we are lagging, we will address and resolve those issues.” 

I feel even more assured after reviewing the comprehensive report I received this morning (Thursday) and the ongoing updates I continue to receive. “We will collaborate closely, and there are certain areas where we must expedite our progress, while in other areas, as I mentioned, we are lagging behind,” Motsepe stated. Despite the slow progress in the preparations, the leader maintains that East Africa will be the host for the 2027 Afcon—marking a first for the region in the history of this prestigious competition. 

“I want to stress that from a CAF perspective and for me personally as the president of CAF, there is no alternative plan; there is no backup plan.” We will put in a great deal of effort in Tanzania… “I will convey a similar message to Kenya and subsequently share the same message with Uganda,” he stated. He also contributed to the discussion regarding the venue for the opening match of Afcon, highlighting that both Tanzania and Kenya have shown interest in hosting the event. 

“I am completely assured that when I return in January next year for the final assessment, and thereafter, when I come back to Tanzania, it will be for the beginning, for the commencement.” When I mentioned starting, I didn't imply that the initial match will necessarily take place in Tanzania. “We will continue to discuss that,” Motsepe stated. The Caf boss is currently in Kenya, evaluating the progress of the preparations and engaging in high-level meetings with key officials, including Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya and Football Kenya Federation (FKF) president Hussein Mohammed. 

The country is in the process of constructing a new facility, the Talanta Sports Stadium, which is designed to accommodate 60,000 spectators and was expected to be completed by this time. The facility will host AFCON matches in Kenya, in conjunction with Kasarani Stadium.