AFCON 2027: CAF Reportedly Considers December Kick-Off Amid Stadium Delays

Posted : 14 October 2026

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is reportedly considering moving the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations from its planned June-July window to December 2027 or January 2028. The reported discussions come amid questions about stadium construction and wider preparations in co-hosts Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. However, CAF has not officially announced a change to the tournament schedule.

CAF has scheduled the competition to run from June 19 to July 17, 2027. The tournament will be the first AFCON jointly hosted by three countries, marking the competition’s return to East Africa for the first time since Ethiopia staged it in 1976.

CAF president Patrice Motsepe has repeatedly expressed confidence in the three host nations. During a visit to the region, he reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to holding the competition in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, while acknowledging the need to accelerate preparations.

Infrastructure remains a central concern, particularly in Kenya, where the construction of Talanta Stadium in Nairobi has attracted attention. The 60,000-capacity venue is among the facilities being developed for the tournament, alongside existing stadiums, training grounds and supporting infrastructure.

The preparations extend beyond match venues. The three countries must also ensure that training facilities, hotels, transport systems, airports, security arrangements and other essential services meet CAF’s requirements before the tournament begins.

A report by French newspaper Le Monde, cited by other media outlets, said CAF had contacted potential alternative hosts in case the East African countries could not meet the required standards in time. Morocco, Algeria and South Africa were among the countries reportedly approached, while Egypt and Côte d’Ivoire were also identified as possible options. These discussions have not resulted in an official change to the hosting arrangements.

A move to December or January would give the organisers additional time to complete outstanding work. It could also affect the international football calendar, domestic leagues and the availability of players competing for clubs in Europe and elsewhere.

The tournament’s current dates were announced by CAF in May 2026 and approved by the FIFA Council. CAF’s published competition calendar continues to list June 19 to July 17 as the official window.

The coming months will therefore be important for the three co-hosts as they work to deliver the required facilities. CAF’s inspections and assessments will help determine whether the original timetable remains achievable or whether changes become necessary.

AFCON 2027: CAF Reportedly Considers December Kick-Off Amid Stadium Delays

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