Botswana Exits 2028 AFCON Hosting Bid with South Africa, Zimbabwe

Botswana has officially withdrawn from its co-hosting bid with South Africa and Zimbabwe for the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The decision was made as the government opted to redirect the country's finances to other areas, particularly due to a financial squeeze in the diamond industry, which significantly contributes to government revenue and foreign exchange.

Botswana failed to submit the necessary documents before the September 14 deadline, which has been viewed as a setback for the sport within the country. An unnamed source expressed disappointment, noting that the opportunity to host would have been beneficial as the hosting responsibilities would have been shared among the three nations.

Previously, Botswana had contested the hosting rights for the 2027 AFCON but lost to a joint bid from Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda. Following Botswana's withdrawal, South Africa and Zimbabwe will proceed with their joint bid, while the Confederation of African Football (CAF) reviews the remaining submissions for the tournament.