The Confederation of African Football (CAF) will soon begin inviting bids to stage the Africa Cup of Nations for the 2029, 2031, 2033 and 2035 editions, a move that is set to reshape the landscape of African football’s flagship competition.
The announcement is expected to be made official on Saturday after CAF’s executive committee meeting, according to journalist Osasu Obayiuwana.
The decision comes as the tournament’s immediate future is already mapped out, with Morocco hosting the 2025 finals from 21 December to 18 January, and the East African trio of Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania preparing to co-host in 2027.
Ethiopia has emerged as one of the frontrunners to stage the 2029 competition.
The country has a rich history with the tournament, having hosted it in 1962, 1968 and 1976.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed confirmed late last year that Ethiopia would formally pursue hosting rights, marking a return to the continental stage after more than five decades.
The Democratic Republic of Congo and neighbouring Congo are also exploring a joint bid for 2029.
Sports Minister Didier Budimbu has been active in strengthening the DRC’s sporting profile, including forging partnerships with major European clubs such as Barcelona, in an effort to boost infrastructure and organisational capacity.
Beyond 2029, other nations are positioning themselves for future editions.
Guinea, inspired by Côte d’Ivoire’s successful hosting earlier this year, has expressed its determination to stage the tournament in the coming years.
While no specific date has been declared, Guinean officials have promised to deliver an event that would surpass the one organised by Côte d’Ivoire.
Breaking: @CAF_Online is going to open bidding processes for FOUR #AFCONS – 2029, 2031, 2033 and 2035, once this is approved by the executive committee at its 30 August meeting at the @Kempinski Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya.
— Osasu Obayiuwana (@osasuo) August 27, 2025
Senegal, which previously campaigned unsuccessfully to host in 2027, has shifted its focus further ahead.
Although the new government has prioritised other national projects, officials have not ruled out a fresh bid for the 2031, 2033 or 2035 editions.
CAF’s decision to open applications for four consecutive editions is seen as a significant step, giving nations ample time to prepare their proposals and develop the necessary infrastructure.
It also provides the organisation with a long-term vision for the tournament’s rotation across the continent, ensuring a broader distribution of host nations.
With interest already declared from multiple countries, competition to host the continent’s biggest sporting event is expected to be fierce.
The forthcoming announcement will mark the beginning of what promises to be an intense and highly strategic bidding process for the future of African football’s showpiece competition.
