South Africa formally bids to co-host Afcon 2028 with Botswana and Namibia
South Africa has taken a decisive step toward co-hosting the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) by submitting a formal bid alongside regional partners Botswana and Namibia. The move comes after months of consultation among national football associations and government bodies, with Football South Africa (FSA) and the sports ministry signaling their commitment to a shared hosting model that leverages the strengths of southern Africa. The bid follows a period of regional consultation, feasibility studies, and a public push to showcase how three nations can deliver a high-profile tournament while promoting development across the region.
The announcement was contextualized by comments from the country’s sports minister, who emphasized that the bid aligns with South Africa’s broader strategy to position the country as a hub for major sporting events. Rabat, Morocco, where the latest discussions reportedly took place, provided a neutral backdrop for formalizing the coalition. The collaboration with Botswana and Namibia reflects a pragmatic approach: pooling venues, infrastructure, and expertise to ensure a world-class tournament that also strengthens regional ties and football development programs.
What makes a three-way hosting arrangement appealing?
Hosting Afcon with multiple countries presents several practical advantages. Shared hosting duties can distribute travel distances for teams, officials, and fans, potentially reducing congestion and increasing attendance across venues. It also allows for a more diverse set of stadiums, training facilities, and media hubs, which can broaden the event’s economic impact across borders. For South Africa, the bid leverages existing stadiums in major cities while tapping into Botswana and Namibia’s growing football ecosystems, youth development programs, and fan bases.
Experts note that a cooperative bid can stimulate regional infrastructure improvements, including transport links, stadium upgrades, and hospitality capacity. In the long term, such collaboration may foster a more resilient football calendar in southern Africa, with shared marketing resources, broadcasting rights negotiations, and combined security and logistics planning. This model mirrors successful precedent in other regions where co-hosted championships have reinforced regional pride while delivering sustainable returns for national federations.
Key considerations for the bid
Several critical questions must be addressed to secure Afcon 2028. First, the bid must demonstrate sufficient stadium capacity, safety standards, and spectator experience across participating nations. Hosts will need to articulate a clear tournament schedule that minimizes travel fatigue for teams and fans while maximizing television and streaming opportunities. Second, governance and security plans must reassure fans and sponsors about smooth operations across borders, including transportation, accommodation, and contingency measures for unforeseen disruptions.
Third, the bid package should detail development commitments tied to the tournament. This includes grassroots football programs, coaching and refereeing education, and legacy initiatives that leave lasting benefits for youth and community football. By tying the bid to concrete social and economic outcomes, the trio can present a compelling case to FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as not just a hosting vote, but a catalyst for regional growth.
Implications for South Africa’s football landscape
For South Africa, a successful Afcon 2028 bid could catalyze renewed interest in the domestic game, attract higher sponsorship, and boost tourism around event periods. It would also reinforce the country’s reputation as a capable host for major international competitions, following past experiences with large-scale events. The collaboration with Botswana and Namibia may serve as a blueprint for future regional collaborations, potentially guiding how African nations approach joint bids for continental tournaments.
Beyond the immediate prestige, the bid carries practical benefits for players, coaches, and fans. A well-organized Afcon would offer South Africa a platform to showcase local talent on a global stage, stimulate youth participation, and create opportunities for local businesses in hospitality, transport, and media. The shared hosting model might also enable more equitable distribution of games, giving fans across southern Africa a stake in the tournament’s success.
Looking ahead
As the CAF bid process unfolds, stakeholders in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia will refine the proposal, address logistical questions, and engage with fans to build broad-based support. The path to hosting Afcon 2028 will require meticulous planning, transparent governance, and a clear demonstration of the tournament’s long-term benefits. If successful, the three-nation bid could redefine hosting strategies for Africa’s premier football event and strengthen regional cooperation for years to come.
