BY THE ARUSHA NEWS REPORTER
The President of the Confederation of African Football(CAF), Patrice Motsepe, has reaffirmed that the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations will proceed as scheduled in East Africa (EA), rejecting speculation that the tournament could be postponed or moved from its designated hosts.
Motsepe said reports suggesting a delay of the competition were unfounded, maintaining that preparations remain on track for the tournament to be staged in East African countries –Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda — a historic first for the competition.
In recent weeks, speculation had intensified over the readiness of the three host nations, with some reports suggesting the tournament could be postponed or even reassigned. CAF, however, has moved to quell those concerns, insisting that planning remains firmly on course.
Separate reports had also claimed that South Africa could emerge as an alternative host if infrastructure challenges persisted in East Africa.
Motsepe has dismissed such claims, stressing that CAF has not altered its position and that the tournament will remain with the original hosts. He reiterated confidence in the three EA countries’ ability to deliver a successful competition, adding that CAF continues to work closely with local authorities to meet required standards.
The CAF leadership’s position comes amid ongoing scrutiny of infrastructure progress in the host nations, but officials have maintained that the tournament remains a priority project for the region and for African football more broadly.
In Tanzania, CAF tournament is scheduled to be hosted by Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar and Arusha.
