Six Nations Submit Bids to Host 2017 Africa Cup of Nations
1 October 2014
The race to host the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations has officially begun, with six countries submitting formal bids ahead of the application deadline on Tuesday, 30 September.
Algeria, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe have entered the fray to stage Africa’s premier football tournament, following Libya’s withdrawal earlier this year due to ongoing political instability.
Of the six contenders, three nations bring with them a strong legacy of hosting the competition. Egypt, one of Africa’s footballing powerhouses, has previously staged the event three times—in 1974, 1986, and most recently in 2006. Ghana also boasts a rich hosting history, having co-hosted with Nigeria in 2000, and independently organized the tournament in 1963, 1978, and 2008. Algeria last hosted the Africa Cup of Nations in 1990, a tournament it famously won on home soil.
Algeria is widely seen as a frontrunner for the 2017 edition, having previously submitted unsuccessful bids for the 2019 and 2021 tournaments. Its growing football infrastructure and track record make it a strong candidate in the eyes of many observers.
Meanwhile, Kenya, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe represent potential first-time hosts. Their bids signal a growing ambition within East and Southern Africa to play a more central role in the continent’s football calendar. However, questions remain over infrastructure readiness and the capacity to deliver a tournament of this scale.
Zambia, Ethiopia, and Mali had earlier expressed interest in bidding but withdrew in the final stages of the process. The reasons for their withdrawal remain unclear, though logistical and financial constraints are often key factors in such decisions.
CAF, the Confederation of African Football, is expected to announce the winning bid in the first quarter of 2015. The selection process will include a comprehensive evaluation of each candidate’s facilities, security situation, accommodation, transport infrastructure, and government support.
Libya was initially awarded the hosting rights for the 2017 tournament, but persistent civil unrest and security challenges forced the North African nation to relinquish its role. The decision opened the door for a fresh bidding process, reigniting hopes in several nations eager to host one of the world’s most watched football tournaments.
The 2017 Africa Cup of Nations will mark the 31st edition of the biennial competition, which has grown steadily in prestige and global visibility. The event not only showcases the best of African football but also offers host countries a significant opportunity to invest in sports infrastructure and gain international attention.
