Ethiopia’s AFCON Hosting Bid Enters CAF Expert Assessment

What changed

A Confederation of African Football (CAF) expert delegation arrived in Addis Ababa on 15 October to assess Ethiopia’s bid to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Ethiopia submitted its official hosting bid in August 2026.

The delegation was welcomed at Bole International Airport by Minister of Women and Sport Dr. Aklilu Tadesse, senior ministry officials and representatives of the Ethiopian Football Federation.

Why it matters

This is the start of an assessment, not a hosting award. CAF is now examining Ethiopia’s bid and preparations before making a decision.

That distinction matters because the visit shifts Ethiopia’s proposal from paperwork into direct scrutiny. The ministry and football federation are presenting the country’s case to CAF officials in Addis Ababa, while the delegation’s findings will shape what happens next.

The assessment results, infrastructure readiness, timetable and competing bids have not been reported. For now, the concrete development is that Ethiopia’s attempt to bring AFCON back to the country has entered its formal evaluation stage.