Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have officially submitted a joint bid to host the 2032 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) following the opening of applications by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for future editions of the continental tournament.
The Malian Football Federation announced that the proposed co-hosting effort under the Alliance of Sahel States framework is anchored on regional integration, solidarity, and the long-term development of African football.
The decision comes after leadership from the three national football federations met with CAF President Patrice Motsepe in New York during the closing stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup to present their initial joint candidacy.
Addressing inquiries regarding the governance structures and security environment in the three military-led nations, Motsepe stated that all bidding countries will receive equal consideration without prejudice, while confirming that essential guarantees regarding fan safety, infrastructure, and freedom of movement remain strict prerequisites.
The joint proposal would see the tournament return to Mali for the first time since 2002 and Burkina Faso since 1998, while marking the first time Niger would serve as a co-host for the flagship event.
