Senegal’s organization of the AFCON: Macky Sall’s major mistake regarding the schedule

Senegalese President Macky Sall has expressed his ambition for Senegal to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in the near future, echoing the dreams of former international El Hadji Diouf. Speaking at the foundation-laying ceremony for the new Diamniadio Olympic Stadium, Sall urged the Ministry of Sports to collaborate closely with the Senegalese Football Federation and its president, Augustin Senghor, to make the country a future host of Africa’s premier football tournament. His vision reflects the optimism generated by Senegal’s ongoing infrastructure projects, including modern stadiums and renovations of existing facilities.

However, the timing of Sall’s announcement revealed a major oversight. He suggested that Senegal could host AFCON within the next four years, which would include the period from 2024 onward. In reality, the hosting rights for that timeframe have already been allocated: Cameroon is set to host the 2021 edition, Ivory Coast the 2023 tournament, and Guinea is scheduled for 2025. This means Senegal cannot realistically aim for these upcoming tournaments and would need to plan for the 2027 AFCON instead. Securing the 2027 edition would require strategic preparations and formal bids, but it represents a viable opportunity for the country to host the continental event.

Despite the misstep in timing, Sall remains confident in Senegal’s potential as a host nation. He highlighted the Diamniadio Olympic Stadium as a symbol of the country’s ambitions and called it the “new temple” for the national team, the Lions of Teranga. Alongside this state-of-the-art venue, the renovation and upgrading of the Léopold Sédar Senghor Stadium and improvements to regional stadiums across the country are intended to position Senegal as a strong contender for future tournaments. These efforts aim not only to meet CAF’s organizational requirements but also to provide a world-class environment for players and fans alike.

The president’s comments underscore a broader strategy of leveraging sporting infrastructure to boost national pride and international recognition. Hosting AFCON would offer Senegal the chance to showcase its modern facilities, stimulate local economic activity, and strengthen its football culture. Sall emphasized that the combination of new stadiums, upgraded regional venues, and a passionate fan base gives the country a unique opportunity to make a compelling bid for 2027.

Sall’s vision aligns with Senegal’s recent successes on the continental stage, including strong performances by the national team and the growth of domestic football leagues. The construction of the Diamniadio Olympic Stadium, in particular, is a landmark project aimed at supporting these ambitions. By investing in modern, high-capacity facilities, Senegal is signaling to CAF and the wider football community that it is ready to host a tournament of significant scale and prestige.

While the immediate goal of hosting within the next four years is unattainable, Sall’s statement reflects long-term planning and a commitment to football development. The country’s leadership is determined to capitalize on new infrastructure, foster regional engagement, and ensure that when the opportunity arises for the 2027 AFCON, Senegal will present a credible and attractive bid.

With continued investment and strategic preparation, Senegal could soon join the ranks of African nations capable of successfully hosting major football events, fulfilling both the president’s ambitions and the dreams of fans eager to see the Lions of Teranga perform on home soil.