Ethiopia Makes Official Bid To Host 2028 AFCON

Ethiopia has formally entered the race to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations after the Ethiopian Football Federation (EFF), with backing from the federal government, submitted its bid to the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

According to reports, the country changed its initial plan to bid for the 2029 tournament after CAF introduced a new four-year cycle for the continental competition.

EFF Secretary General Bahiru Tilahun confirmed that Ethiopia’s proposal has received a full sovereign guarantee from the federal government, highlighting the authorities’ commitment to securing the hosting rights.

If successful, the bid would see Ethiopia host the continent’s biggest football tournament for the first time in more than five decades. The country previously staged the AFCON in 1962, 1968 and 1976, winning the 1962 edition on home soil.

The hosting bid comes as Ethiopia intensifies efforts to upgrade its football infrastructure. The national team currently plays some of its home fixtures outside the country because existing stadiums do not meet CAF requirements.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has been driving plans to develop and renovate football facilities, with the Adey Abeba Stadium in Addis Ababa at the centre of the infrastructure programme. Other proposed venues are located in Bahir Dar, Dire Dawa, Hawassa, Jimma and Mekele.

The government hopes the projects will not only satisfy CAF’s requirements but also promote tourism, create employment and improve sporting infrastructure across the country.

EFF President Isayas Jira Bosho has also expressed confidence in Ethiopia’s ability to recreate the excitement associated with the country’s historic football era if the bid is successful.

However, Ethiopia is expected to face strong competition, with Egypt and South Africa reportedly among the countries that could challenge for the hosting rights.

The development comes as East Africa prepares to host the 2027 AFCON, with Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania selected as joint hosts. Ethiopia’s proposed 2028 bid could therefore give the region another opportunity to stage Africa’s premier football competition.