McCarthy hits back at doubts over East Africa’s AFCON 2027 bid

Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has strongly pushed back against reports casting doubt on East Africa’s ability to host AFCON 2027, branding the claims inaccurate and disrespectful. The tournament will be jointly staged by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

McCarthy said preparations are progressing and criticised what he called a rush to judge the hosts too early. “There is real work happening on the ground,” he said, urging critics to base opinions on facts rather than assumptions.

Regional football officials also backed the coach, pointing to CAF’s continued confidence in the project. With two years still to go before kickoff, organisers insist the focus remains on delivery, not distraction.