AFCON 2027: Kenya Uganda Tanzania Face CAF Training Ground Standards

Following an inspection tour of key facilities set to be used for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has outlined requirements for host nations. Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania will co-host AFCON 2027, and CAF President Patrice Motsepe has confirmed the tournament will be staged as planned.

Training Facilities to Be Used in Kenya

Kenya has identified several facilities for training grounds, including Nyayo Stadium, Ulinzi Sports Complex, Kenya Police Sacco Grounds, Kasarani Annex A and B, Talanta Stadium (with two outdoor pitches), Thika Stadium (under construction), and the Kenya Academy of Sports. To be certified by CAF, these facilities must meet specific regulations.

Key CAF Requirements that Must Be Met

The pitch surface must be smooth and level, featuring natural grass, hybrid grass, or artificial turf with only football lines and markings. The grass height must be between 20-30 meters, and a proper drainage system and water sprinkler are required. Training grounds must measure between 100m and 110m in length and 64m and 75m in width. Other requirements include two movable goals, a bench with at least 20 seats, a dressing room with 23 seats, lockers, showers, urinals, sinks, and toilets, a secure fence, and well-manned entrances and exits. Floodlights with a minimum capacity of 500 LUX are also necessary for night training.

What Else is Needed to Be in Place?

Kenya met most of the requirements during CHAN 2024, but CAF will not compromise on standards for AFCON 2027. With the tournament scheduled between June and July next year, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania have approximately one-and-a-half years to ensure all facilities are fully compliant.