CAF Issues 90-Day Deadline to Kenya Over AFCON 2027 Stadium Readiness

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has handed Kenya a strict 90-day ultimatum to resolve infrastructure and safety concerns at key venues earmarked for the AFCON 2027 tournament, raising pressure on local authorities to accelerate renovation works.

The warning follows a recent inspection tour of facilities including Moi International Sports Centre and Nyayo National Stadium, where CAF officials reportedly identified deficiencies in pitch standards, spectator safety systems, media infrastructure, and emergency access routes. Inspectors also assessed the proposed Talanta Sports City, a project expected to play a central role in the tournament.

Authorities from Football Kenya Federation and Sports Kenya have acknowledged the concerns and say corrective measures are already underway. Both stadiums have been temporarily closed to allow renovation and compliance works, a move that has disrupted domestic fixtures but is seen as necessary to meet CAF’s strict hosting benchmarks.

CAF’s deadline is viewed as a decisive checkpoint. Should Kenya fail to demonstrate substantial progress within the stipulated period, the continental body could reconsider venue allocations among co-hosts or impose further conditions. Meeting the requirements, however, would reinforce confidence in the country’s readiness to stage matches at one of Africa’s biggest sporting events.

With the clock ticking, attention now shifts to construction timelines, funding execution, and whether contractors can deliver upgrades swiftly enough to satisfy CAF inspectors during their follow-up assessment.