The Libyan Football Federation (LFF) has officially submitted bids to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2028, 2032 and 2036, signalling the country’s ambition to stage Africa’s biggest football competition for the first time.
The North African nation confirmed its intention to compete for one of the next three available editions of the continental tournament as part of efforts to strengthen its football profile and position itself as a destination for major international sporting events.
The announcement comes as several African countries continue to invest heavily in sports infrastructure in a bid to attract major continental and global competitions.
Libya believes hosting the Africa Cup of Nations would not only transform its football landscape but also stimulate economic growth, tourism and investment while showcasing the country’s ability to organise world-class sporting events.
Historic ambition for Libyan football
The Libyan Football Federation said the bid forms part of a broader strategy to develop football across the country and provide modern facilities capable of hosting elite international competitions.
Although Libya has participated in several editions of the Africa Cup of Nations, the country has never hosted the tournament since it was first staged in 1957.
Securing the hosting rights would therefore represent a landmark achievement for Libyan football and underline the country’s growing commitment to sports development.
The federation is expected to highlight ongoing investments in stadiums, transportation, accommodation and security infrastructure as part of its presentation to the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Football administrators in Libya also believe staging the tournament would inspire a new generation of players while creating opportunities for local businesses and improving the country’s sporting reputation.
CAF to evaluate competing bids
The Confederation of African Football will assess all submitted applications before selecting the host nations for the future editions of the tournament.
Libya is expected to face competition from other African countries interested in staging the prestigious championship, with several football federations reportedly preparing their own proposals.
CAF’s evaluation process is expected to focus on the quality of sporting infrastructure, stadium readiness, transportation networks, hotel capacity, security arrangements, medical facilities and the overall ability of bidding nations to organise a successful tournament.
The continental governing body is also expected to examine commercial plans, broadcasting infrastructure and legacy projects designed to ensure the tournament leaves long-term benefits for the host nation.
Although CAF has yet to announce when the hosting rights will be awarded, successful countries will be expected to meet strict organisational and technical standards.
Potential benefits of hosting AFCON
Hosting the Africa Cup of Nations is widely regarded as one of the biggest opportunities for African countries to promote tourism, attract foreign investment and strengthen their international image.
Previous host nations have benefited from improved infrastructure, increased visitor numbers and significant economic activity generated by thousands of football supporters travelling from across the continent.
For Libya, securing the hosting rights would provide an opportunity to showcase its culture, hospitality and progress while reinforcing its return as a destination capable of staging major international events.
The tournament would also boost local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, transport operators and retailers, while creating temporary employment opportunities during the competition.
Beyond the economic impact, football officials believe hosting AFCON would accelerate grassroots football development and encourage greater investment in youth football programmes across the country.
If Libya’s bid is successful, it would become one of the few North African nations to host the continent’s flagship football competition, marking a historic milestone for the country’s sporting history and further strengthening its position within African football.
