Botswana's withdrawal from the joint bid was confirmed after the government decided not to provide a financial guarantee required to support the country's participation. The government stated that hosting the continental tournament is not currently a priority due to financial constraints. This decision leaves South Africa and Zimbabwe to continue with their bid to the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
The original three-country proposal included staging matches in Gaborone and Francistown, with plans to renovate the National Stadium in Gaborone and utilize existing stadium infrastructure in Francistown. This arrangement aimed to reduce travel costs between venues. However, Botswana failed to submit the required bidding documents by the 14 September deadline, while South Africa and Zimbabwe proceeded with their submissions.
The Botswana Football Association had argued that the financial guarantee was not required at the initial stage of the bidding process. Nevertheless, the government's position ultimately led to Botswana's withdrawal from the joint bid. Botswana had previously expressed interest in hosting the 2027 AFCON but was unsuccessful, with the tournament awarded to a joint bid from Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
With Botswana's withdrawal, South Africa and Zimbabwe will continue with their joint proposal to host the 2028 AFCON. CAF will determine which country or joint bid is awarded the rights to host the tournament. The bidding process is ongoing, and further details on the remaining bids and the next stages are expected from CAF.
The 2028 AFCON hosting rights are still open, with South Africa and Zimbabwe's joint bid being the only remaining contender. CAF will assess the bids based on various factors, including infrastructure, financial capabilities, and logistical arrangements. The winning bid will be announced at a later date.
Botswana's withdrawal from the bid is a setback for the country's football ambitions, but it allows South Africa and Zimbabwe to focus on their joint proposal. The two countries will need to ensure that their bid meets CAF's requirements and presents a strong case for hosting the tournament.
The 2028 AFCON is expected to be a significant event, with top African football teams competing for the championship. CAF's decision on the host country or joint bid will have a substantial impact on the football landscape in Africa. Key stakeholders will be closely watching the developments in the bidding process.
Key points
- Botswana's withdrawal from the joint bid was due to financial constraints and the government's decision not to prioritize hosting the 2028 AFCON.
- South Africa and Zimbabwe will continue with their joint proposal to host the 2028 AFCON.
- CAF will determine which country or joint bid is awarded the rights to host the 2028 AFCON.
