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CAF official dismisses reports suggesting 2027 AFCON will be pushed to 2028
12th February, 2026 06:55 PM
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Head of TV and Broadcasting, Luxolo September, has dismissed widespread reports suggesting that the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament will be pushed to 2028.
Speculation about a possible postponement intensified on Wednesday following a report by a UK-based media outlet which alleged that CAF had resolved to reschedule the competition. The report further indicated that the matter would be tabled for discussion and possible approval during the CAF Executive Committee meeting set to take place in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on Friday, February 13, 2026.
According to the publication, concerns had been raised about whether co-hosts Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania would complete the necessary infrastructure upgrades in time. Particular focus was placed on the construction of new stadiums in Nairobi and Arusha, which are reportedly still underway.
However, September, strongly rejected the claims. Responding via social media platform X, September labeled the postponement reports as untrue, directly disputing the narrative that the tournament would be moved. ”You write fiction,” Luxolo responded to the post.
Kenya yet to finalise hosting contribution
Meanwhile, fresh reports indicate that the East African trio remain on course to stage the continental showpiece in 2027. What remains outstanding is Kenya’s payment of its hosting commitment fee amounting to $30 million (approximately Ksh3.9 billion). Uganda and Tanzania are said to have already settled their respective contributions.
Kenya is expected to remit the outstanding amount soon, a move that would reinforce the region’s commitment to successfully organising the tournament. The three nations continue to face scrutiny regarding their readiness and ability to deliver facilities that meet CAF standards.
CAF inspectors are currently touring the host nations to evaluate key venues and infrastructure earmarked for the competition. The inspection process began in Tanzania and will extend to Zanzibar, Kenya, and Uganda, with the exercise scheduled to conclude on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
Despite reassurances from CAF officials, attention now shifts to the upcoming Executive Committee meeting in Dar es Salaam. The outcome of that gathering is anticipated to provide definitive clarity on whether AFCON 2027 will proceed as scheduled or face any adjustments.
East Africa won the rights to host the tournament under the “Pamoja” joint bid, marking a historic opportunity for the region to stage Africa’s premier football competition.
