Bafana Bafana have teamed up with Botswana and Zimbabwe to submit a joint bid for the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations, aiming to bring AFCON back to Southern Africa after a 15-year wait. The trio confirmed their proposal on 24 July 2026, highlighting their combined strengths as a key advantage.
How the three nations plan to win the AFCON 2028 hosting rights
COSAFA president Tariq Babitseng, who also leads the Botswana Football Association, revealed the joint bid is official. He said the countries would meet this weekend to address any issues before finalizing their submission. “These three nations have put in a joint bid,” Babitseng said. “Now it’s time for Southern Africa to host, and that motivated us even more.”
South Africa’s hosting of the 2010 FIFA World Cup gives the bid instant credibility. Botswana already has stadiums ready in Gaborone and Francistown, while Zimbabwe’s refurbishment programme is set to finish next year. The partnership combines South Africa’s proven event experience, Botswana’s rising football ambitions and Zimbabwe’s ongoing upgrades to create a strong bid.
Why Southern Africa is ready to host AFCON again
Southern Africa last hosted AFCON in 2013, when South Africa staged the tournament. The region’s 15-year absence has been long, but the three nations argue their combined strengths meet CAF’s requirements. South Africa’s ability to deliver global events, Botswana’s growing football profile and Zimbabwe’s stadium push all strengthen their case.
Babitseng pointed to the region’s progress. “Football leaders believe the region’s experience and improving infrastructure strengthen its chances,” he noted. The trio will now finalize their proposal ahead of the next stages of CAF’s host selection process.
What happens next in the AFCON 2028 race?
The three nations will hold preliminary talks this weekend to resolve any gaps. After that, they’ll refine their bid before presenting it to CAF’s evaluation panel. The goal is to convince the governing body that Southern Africa is the right choice for 2028.
South Africa currently sits second in the FIFA World Cup 2026 standings with 4 points from 3 games, recent form LWDL, and a goal difference of -1. Their bid leverages this momentum and the legacy of past tournaments to make a strong case for the continent’s top prize.
