Ethiopia Enters Race to Host 2028 Africa Cup of Nations

Ethiopia has officially entered the race to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), in a bid that could bring Africa's premier football tournament back to the country for the first time in more than five decades.

The Ethiopian Football Federation has formally submitted its hosting proposal to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), marking a significant step in the country's ambition to stage the continental championship.

Ethiopia last hosted the tournament in 1976, when it also made history by winning the competition on home soil.

Ethiopia's Bid Faces Security Challenges

The country's bid comes amid significant security concerns.

Ongoing insurgencies in the Amhara and Oromia regions, coupled with fears of renewed conflict in Tigray, could present major challenges for Ethiopia's hosting ambitions.

CAF is expected to assess a range of factors before selecting the host, including stadium infrastructure, accommodation, transport, logistics and security arrangements.

Ethiopia's ability to address these concerns will likely be central to the country's chances of securing the tournament.

A Major Footballing Ambition

Ethiopia is Africa's second-most populous country, with a population of about 130 million people. Its capital, Addis Ababa, is also home to the headquarters of the African Union, giving the country a prominent continental profile.

Despite its historical importance in African football, the national team has struggled in recent years. Ethiopia is currently ranked 143rd in the world and last appeared at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2022, when it was eliminated in the group stage.

The federation nevertheless maintains that the country is ready to host Africa's biggest football event.

Bid Could Mark Historic Return

A successful bid would represent a major return for Ethiopia, more than 50 years after it last hosted AFCON.

The 2028 edition is also significant because the tournament is moving to a four-year cycle from 2028, making the hosting opportunity particularly important for countries seeking to establish themselves as major destinations for African football.

For Ethiopia, securing the tournament would provide an opportunity to showcase its infrastructure, culture and hospitality while reconnecting the country with the continental football spotlight.

The final decision will depend on CAF's assessment of Ethiopia's bid and its ability to demonstrate that it can meet the logistical, infrastructural and security requirements of hosting the continent's biggest football tournament.