Botswana Withdraws From South Africa-Zimbabwe 2028 AFCON Bid
Botswana has pulled out of the joint proposal with South Africa and Zimbabwe to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations, leaving the two remaining partners to continue the bidding process without it.
The withdrawal was reported by Botswana newspaper Mmegi and follows the government’s decision not to provide the financial guarantee needed to support the country’s involvement in the bid.
Financial Constraints End Botswana’s Involvement
According to EWN, the Botswana government reportedly cited financial constraints in declining to back the bid, saying hosting the continental tournament is not currently among its priorities.
The decision meant Botswana did not submit the required bidding documents before the 14 September deadline.
South Africa and Zimbabwe, however, proceeded with their submissions and will now continue with their joint proposal.
The Botswana Football Association had previously maintained that a financial guarantee was not necessary at the initial stage of the bidding process. The government’s position, however, ultimately brought Botswana’s participation to an end.
Original Plan Included Two Botswana Cities
The initial three-country proposal had envisaged matches being played in Gaborone and Francistown.
Francistown’s existing stadium facilities were expected to be used, while renovation work was planned for the National Stadium in Gaborone.
Having venues in the three neighbouring countries was also expected to help minimise travel between match locations and reduce associated costs.
With Botswana’s departure, those plans will now have to be reconsidered as South Africa and Zimbabwe continue with their joint proposal.
Botswana Previously Targeted 2027 AFCON
This is not Botswana’s first attempt to secure hosting rights for the continental showpiece.
The country had previously shown interest in staging the 2027 AFCON, but the tournament was ultimately awarded to the joint bid from Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
Botswana’s latest withdrawal leaves South Africa and Zimbabwe to pursue the 2028 hosting rights on their own.
CAF will make the final decision on which bid is selected to host the 2028 tournament, with further details on the remaining proposals and the next stage of the process expected from the continental football governing body.
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