PRETORIA – South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has officially confirmed the nation’s intention to launch a bid to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). In a strategic move to strengthen regional ties, the bid is expected to be a joint Southern African effort, with invitations extended to neighbors Botswana and Namibia.
If successful, the 2028 edition would mark the first time the prestigious tournament returns to Southern Africa since South Africa hosted it in 2013.
The Road to 2028: Key Bid Details
The announcement signals an ambitious return to the continental football stage for South Africa. Following the success of the 2010 World Cup and the 2013 AFCON, the country possesses the world-class infrastructure required to anchor such an event.
Fast Facts on the 2028 Bid:
- Regional Collaboration: South Africa intends to co-host with Botswana (BFA) and Namibia (NFA), creating a tri-nation Southern African football festival.
- Tight Timeline: The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has set a deadline of 1 February 2026 for all formal letters of interest.
- Ending the Drought: By 2028, it will have been 15 years since the tournament was held in the COSAFA region.
Why a Joint Bid Makes Sense
By partnering with Botswana and Namibia, South Africa reduces the financial and logistical burden while helping neighboring nations upgrade their sporting infrastructure. This “COSAFA Powerhouse” approach aligns with CAF’s recent trend of multi-country hosting, as seen with the “Pamoja” bid (Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania) for 2027.
