Morocco has reportedly emerged as a potential alternative host for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) amid growing concerns over preparations in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda
Several reports say the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has contacted Morocco about stepping in if the three East African co-hosts fail to complete the required infrastructure and logistical preparations on time. However, CAF has not announced any decision to move AFCON 2027 from East Africa to Morocco.
CAF’s official position remains that Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda will jointly stage the 2027 tournament from 19 June to 17 July 2027. The three countries were awarded hosting rights in 2023, with the tournament set to become the first AFCON jointly hosted by three nations. CAF has repeatedly described the event as a landmark moment for East African football.
What happened to the East African nations?
CAF has also continued inspecting stadiums, training facilities, hotels, airports, and other infrastructure across the three countries. During an inspection in September, CAF officials assessed facilities including Kenya’s newly constructed Talanta Stadium, Uganda’s Mandela National Stadium and Tanzania’s Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
Why has Morocco entered the conversation to host AFCON 2027?
The latest reports centre on concerns about the pace of preparations, particularly infrastructure and other tournament requirements in the East African host nations. The reports from CAF in September were that some areas of the preparations were behind schedule, although he expressed optimism that the outstanding work could be completed before the tournament.
That has reportedly prompted CAF to consider contingency arrangements.
Morocco would be a natural candidate for such a contingency because the country recently hosted the 2025 AFCON and has extensive experience with major international football events. Nevertheless, being considered as a possible alternative does not mean Morocco has been awarded the tournament.
CAF yet to confirm any change to AFCON 2027
CAF’s most recent official communications continue to refer to Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda as the hosts of AFCON 2027. CAF’s official tournament information confirms that the competition is scheduled to begin on 19 June 2027, with the final set for 17 July 2027.
The 24-team tournament will also mark the return of AFCON to East Africa for the first time since Ethiopia hosted the competition in 1976.
What happens next?
The coming months will be crucial for Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda as CAF continues to monitor preparations. If the infrastructure and organisational requirements are met, the tournament is expected to proceed as originally planned.
If significant problems remain, CAF could then make a formal decision on alternative arrangements.