Ethiopia has officially submitted its bid to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations, seeking to bring the continent’s premier football tournament back to the country for the first time since 1976.

The bid is being backed by the Ethiopian government, which has outlined plans to improve the country’s football infrastructure as part of its preparations.

Ethiopia has previously hosted the AFCON in 1962, 1968 and 1976, but has not staged the senior tournament for 50 years.

The country’s latest bid comes as part of CAF’s move to introduce a new four-year cycle for the Africa Cup of Nations.

Ethiopia faces competition from Morocco and a joint South Africa-Botswana bid. CAF received the three official bids ahead of the submission deadline.

The Ethiopian Football Federation has expressed confidence in the country’s ability to host the tournament, while authorities are working to develop and upgrade stadium facilities to meet international standards.

The bid is also expected to provide an opportunity for Ethiopia to showcase its growing football infrastructure and attract international visitors.

CAF is expected to assess the competing bids before announcing the host of the 2028 tournament.