Côte d’Ivoire is poised to host what many predict will be the most captivating African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in the competition’s history, four decades after its solitary previous hosting.
The surge in accreditation requests stands as a testament to the heightened interest surrounding AFCON in Ivory Coast.
Veron Mosengo-Omba, the General Secretary of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), revealed that a staggering 5,200 accreditation requests were received, dwarfing the 2,000 requests received for the previous tournament in Cameroon.
During a press conference on December 20, 2023, Mosengo-Omba emphasized the unparalleled enthusiasm from sponsors, citing a robust system in place to safeguard their interests.
“Many sponsors sign with CAF. They trust the leadership of CAF,” he stated, underscoring the confidence and backing from the corporate sector.
Beyond the numerical indicators, the appeal of Côte d’Ivoire as a destination is a central theme in the narrative of this upcoming AFCON.
The year 2024, coinciding with the tournament, is anticipated to witness a notable increase in tourism, driven by Ivorians in the diaspora and international visitors eager to experience the vibrant country during the football extravaganza.
For the first time in AFCON history, tickets have been made available online, streamlining the process for global fans.
The president of Cocan, Albert François Amichia, disclosed that the organizational efforts extend beyond national boundaries.
Ambassadors from several countries in the sub-region expressed solidarity, highlighting the multinational support for hosting the event.
The global interest in AFCON transcends continents, with Europe, the Balkans, and Brazil demonstrating burgeoning enthusiasm.
More than 150 countries worldwide are set to broadcast the tournament, indicating a broadening global viewership.
As preparations unfold, the significance of this AFCON extends beyond the realm of football.
The tournament promises to showcase the Ivorian culture in all its splendor, providing an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the nation’s rich heritage.
The gastronomic reservoir of Côte d’Ivoire, renowned for its diversity and flavors, adds an extra dimension to the overall experience.
On the football front, AFCON 2024 promises high-level competition, with teams like Nigeria, Morocco, Senegal, Algeria, Egypt, Ivory Coast, and Mali bringing a formidable mix of talent and dynamism.
The tournament is expected to defy conventional expectations, with no team considered a small contender, setting the stage for a riveting and unpredictable spectacle.
With all the elements aligning, Côte d’Ivoire stands ready to host a historic AFCON that transcends the boundaries of sport, captivating the world with a fusion of football prowess, cultural richness, and global unity.
