South Africa is preparing to formally submit its bid to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations, with the country set to declare its ambition ahead of the 1 February deadline.
Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie confirmed that the bid will be officially lodged on Saturday, marking a decisive step in the country’s efforts to bring the continent’s flagship football tournament back to southern Africa.
If successful, it would be South Africa’s first time hosting the competition since the 2013 edition.
The proposal is being developed as a regional project rather than a solo bid. South Africa is seeking to present a joint candidacy involving neighbouring countries, with Botswana and Namibia already included in the plans.
Lesotho and Mozambique are also being considered as potential partners in what is described as a shared hosting vision.
By opting for a multi-nation approach, the organisers aim to demonstrate a commitment to regional cooperation and inclusivity.
The plan is designed to spread the benefits of hosting the tournament across several countries while showcasing the collective strength of southern African football infrastructure.
The bid will face competition from other African nations, including Ethiopia and Egypt, both of which are also understood to be considering submissions.
In response, the southern African bloc is expected to emphasise its existing stadiums, transport networks and experience in staging major international sporting events.
Officials believe that the combination of proven infrastructure and a collaborative hosting model could appeal to the Confederation of African Football.
The proposal is being positioned as an innovative approach that reflects a broader vision for continental unity through sport.
With the submission date now imminent, attention is turning to how CAF will assess the competing bids. The decision is expected to hinge on technical readiness as well as the long-term legacy each proposal promises to deliver.
For South Africa, the bid represents both a sporting ambition and a symbolic opportunity.
Thirteen years after last hosting the Africa Cup of Nations, the country is once again positioning itself at the centre of African football, this time with a regional partnership at the heart of its campaign.
