Egypt has officially launched its preparations to submit a bid to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), signaling the country’s intent to reclaim the prestigious continental tournament. The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) has indicated its commitment to presenting a comprehensive and competitive proposal to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), aiming to bring the tournament back to one of Africa’s most illustrious footballing nations.
The decision to pursue hosting rights for the 2028 edition comes amidst growing confidence in Egypt’s ability to deliver a world-class tournament, supported by the country’s existing infrastructure, passionate fan base, and history of successful football events. Egypt previously hosted AFCON in 1959, 1974, 1986, 2006, and most recently in 2019, the latter of which earned praise for the organization and vibrant atmosphere across its stadiums.
Officials from the Egyptian Football Association have been actively engaging with local and national stakeholders to ensure all aspects of the bid align with CAF’s stringent requirements. Key elements under consideration include modern stadium facilities, state-of-the-art training centers, transportation networks, accommodation capacity, and security arrangements. The government has expressed support for the initiative, recognizing the potential boost to tourism, the economy, and Egypt’s international football stature.
In addition to existing venues used during the 2019 tournament, the bid is expected to feature upgrades to current stadiums alongside proposals of newly constructed sites. This strategy aims to combine legacy infrastructure with innovative facilities, enhancing both the player and spectator experience. Cairo, Alexandria, and other major cities are likely to be at the forefront of hosting duties, leveraging their logistical capabilities and cultural attractions.
Egypt’s strong track record in African football also positions it as an attractive candidate. The national team has won the AFCON title a record seven times and continues to be a dominant force on the continent. Hosting the tournament once more would not only highlight Egypt’s football pedigree but also inspire a new generation of players and fans.
The bidding process for the 2028 AFCON title will involve rigorous assessments by CAF evaluators, including site visits, technical presentations, and detailed plans addressing operational and commercial aspects. Egypt’s bid will be competing against other hopeful nations, each offering unique opportunities to showcase African football on a grand stage.
As Egypt moves forward with its preparations, the EFA has emphasized transparency and collaboration, inviting input from clubs, players, and supporters to build a unified vision. This collective approach aims to ensure the bid reflects the enthusiasm and pride of the Egyptian football community.
Securing the hosting rights for the Africa Cup of Nations 2028 would affirm Egypt’s status as a key hub for African football and provide the nation with an invaluable platform to further develop its sports infrastructure and international reputation.
Looking ahead, Egypt’s progress will be closely monitored as the bidding deadline approaches. The nation’s experience and readiness make it a strong contender, but the final decision will rest on demonstrating the capacity to meet CAF’s evolving standards and deliver an exceptional tournament for fans across the continent.
