Zimbabwe, South Africa, Botswana and Namibia Submit Joint AFCON 2028 Hosting Bid

HARARE – Zimbabwe has officially joined South Africa, Botswana and Namibia in a landmark joint bid to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), a move that could bring Africa's biggest football tournament back to Southern Africa.

The four-nation bid was confirmed by COSAFA President Tariq Babitseng, who said the Southern African region had submitted its proposal to the Confederation of African Football (CAF). If successful, it would be the first time four countries co-host the AFCON finals.

The joint bid aims to showcase Southern Africa's football infrastructure, hospitality and growing ability to stage major international sporting events. South Africa has previously hosted AFCON in 1996 and 2013, while Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia are seeking to host matches in the continental showpiece as part of the regional partnership.

CAF is expected to evaluate all submissions before announcing the successful host nation or nations. The Southern African bid faces competition from other interested bidders for the 2028 tournament.

If awarded hosting rights, the tournament is expected to boost tourism, create jobs, improve sports infrastructure and strengthen regional cooperation while giving millions of football fans the opportunity to experience AFCON across Southern Africa.

Source: CAF, COSAFA