AFCON 2028: Egypt begins preparations for hosting bid following World Cup progress

Egypt has started preparations to submit a bid to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations, with the Egyptian Football Federation confirming that official work is already underway to support the country’s candidacy for the continent’s biggest football tournament.

The announcement was made by Egyptian Football Federation board member Hamada El Sherbini during a radio interview on Mega FM, where he revealed that discussions are progressing with the relevant authorities and the country’s political leadership.

According to El Sherbini, the momentum behind the project has grown following Egypt’s campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The federation believes Egypt’s sporting infrastructure, including its stadiums and football facilities, provides a strong foundation for staging the African championship.

As planning continues, the bid for the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations has become one of the federation’s main priorities.

Egypt focuses on hosting the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations

Speaking during the interview, El Sherbini explained that preparations for the bid are being carried out in cooperation with the relevant institutions responsible for such a project.

He pointed to Egypt’s modern stadiums and sporting infrastructure as important strengths in the country’s ambition to host another major continental tournament.

According to the official, the federation is concentrating its efforts on presenting a competitive bid for the 2028 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, the flagship national team competition organised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

The initiative follows Egypt’s appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the Pharaohs reached the knockout stage before their campaign came to an end.

The federation sees the proposed bid as part of Egypt’s continued presence on the international football stage after that tournament.

Long-term football development remains a key objective

Beyond hosting ambitions, El Sherbini also outlined broader plans for the future of Egyptian football.

He said the federation is continuing to work alongside national team coach Hossam Hassan to identify and monitor players with dual nationality who could strengthen the national side in the years ahead.

According to the official, the intention is to build on previous recruitment efforts by identifying more eligible players capable of representing Egypt in future competitions.

He referred to the approach taken with Haitham Hassan as an example the federation hopes to replicate with other footballers who qualify to play for the Pharaohs.

The long-term planning is also centred on maintaining the experience within the national team.

Mohamed Salah remains central to Egypt’s future plans

El Sherbini also highlighted the continued importance of captain Mohamed Salah to Egypt’s ambitions over the coming years.

He stated that the federation hopes the Liverpool forward will remain part of the national team setup through to the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

Salah continues to be regarded as one of the key figures in Egypt’s squad as the federation looks to combine experienced players with emerging talent.

Egypt’s latest World Cup campaign ended in the Round of 16 after a 3-2 defeat to defending champions Argentina.

Following the team’s return home, the delegation received an official welcome from President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi.

With preparations for a potential AFCON hosting bid now underway, the federation is combining ambitions on and off the pitch as it continues to shape its long-term vision for Egyptian football.