Senegal prepare to bid for AFCON 2029

A section of Senegal fans cheer on their national team | Photo Credit: Courtesy

FOOTBALL Senegal prepare to bid for AFCON 2029

Shafic Kiyaga 19:31 - 04.10.2023

Neighbours Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania put together a compelling case under their Pamoja Bid, leavuing other contenders including Botswana in the lurch.

Senegal has set its sights on the 2029 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) hosting after their unsuccessful bid for the 2027 edition.

Senegal were among the six nations that bid for the 2027 AFCON, and were reportedly pre-vote favourites to secure the rights, before the Confederation of African Football handed the rights to a joint East Africa bid.

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Neighbours Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania put together a compelling case under their Pamoja Bid, leavuing other contenders including Botswana in the lurch.

However, Senegal, undeterred by the setback, is already strategizing for the next opportunity. The Senegal Football Federation president, Augustin Senghor, emphasized their intent.

"It would be a good thing to return to the competition for 2029, but for that to happen, we need a decision from the authorities," he remarked.

Augustin's determination reflects the nation's passion for football and its desire to once again provide a grand stage for Africa's premier football competition.

Senegal last hosted AFCON in 1992, with Cote d'Ivoire taking home the trophy. Now, almost four decades later, the West African nation is keen on recreating that magic.

However, the path to realizing this dream is not without challenges. Key among them is gaining solid backing from the government. As Senghor noted, official support is pivotal to propel Senegal's bid forward.