Ethiopia has officially submitted a government-backed bid to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations, pivoting its strategy to align with CAF’s new four-year tournament cycle.
The Ethiopian Football Federation (EFF) has officially submitted a bid to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The move follows a major policy shift by CAF in December 2025, which transitioned the tournament to a four-year cycle starting in 2028.
EFF Secretary General Bahiru Tilahun confirmed the application via state media, emphasizing that the federation has secured the necessary “government’s guarantee to host the tournament” to bolster their candidacy.
While Ethiopia currently lacks a CAF-accredited stadium, the government is accelerating infrastructure projects to meet international standards.
Construction on the Adey Abeba Stadium in Addis Ababa is reportedly in its final stages, and several other cities, including Bahir Dar and Hawassa, have been identified as potential venues.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has previously voiced strong support for the bid, viewing the tournament as a landmark opportunity for the Horn of Africa nation.
The EFF’s decision to pivot from a 2029 bid to the 2028 edition reflects the revised continental football calendar. Ethiopia faces competition from several other nations yet to be specified by CAF.
Despite the challenges regarding stadium accreditation, Tilahun remains optimistic about the country’s readiness.
The bid represents Ethiopia’s latest effort to bring the prestigious continental showpiece back to the country for the first time since it hosted in 1976.