DRC and Congo-Brazzaville: a joint candidacy for CAN 2029

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Congo are planning to make history in African football by co-hosting the 2029 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The two countries are preparing to submit a joint bid to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), an unprecedented move that could redefine their regional cooperation.

A project driven by a shared vision

In a united approach, the sports ministers of the two countries are working to formalize this candidacy. Didier Budimbu, Minister of Sports of the DRC, confirmed this initiative:

“With my counterpart from Congo-Brazzaville, we are determined to organize the CAN 2029 together.”This project takes advantage of a rare geographical specificity: Kinshasa and Brazzaville, two capitals separated by the Congo River, are the closest in the world. This proximity could offer a unique organization and simplified logistics for teams, officials and supporters.

A historic alliance

While neither the DRC nor Congo have yet hosted the CAN, both countries have already left their mark on African football. Congo was crowned champion in 1972, and the DRC (then Zaire) won the 1968 and 1974 editions. This joint bid is part of a desire to extend this sporting heritage.
This initiative is also in line with the recent trend towards co-hosting competitions. After awarding the 2027 CAN to East Africa (Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania), CAF is encouraging joint efforts between neighbouring countries to host major events.

Challenges to be met: infrastructure and financing

While the project inspires with its ambition, it also raises considerable challenges:

1. Sports infrastructure :
   • The DRC has three approved stadiums:
     • The Martyrs Stadium in Kinshasa.
     • The TP Mazembe Stadium in Lubumbashi.
     • The Frédéric Kibassa Maliba Stadium in Lubumbashi.
   • Congo, for its part, relies on the Stade Massambat-Débat in Brazzaville and the Kintélé sports complex, which will require upgrades.
     Together, these infrastructures could meet the minimum requirement of six stadiums imposed by CAF.
2. Financing :
   Organizing a CAN requires massive investments, estimated at more than 500 million dollars, to modernize stadiums, develop hotel infrastructure and improve transport networks.
3. Logistics and security :
   • Security remains a crucial issue, particularly in the DRC, where certain regions are still experiencing tensions.
   • Transport between the two capitals and to other host cities will need to be smoothed to ensure the success of the event.

Economic and diplomatic potential

Despite these challenges, this application represents a unique opportunity:

• Economic revitalization : The economic benefits of a CAN are considerable, notably thanks to the influx of tourists and investments in infrastructure.
• Strengthening regional ties : This project could strengthen cooperation between the two Congos, sending a strong signal of unity in a region often marked by political challenges.
• Promoting youth and sport : With a focus on football, both countries also want to promote local talent and inspire younger generations.

Next steps

Congo-Brazzaville’s official response to the DRC’s proposal is expected in the coming days, with a meeting planned between the governments of the two countries and President Félix Tshisekedi. The formal submission of the dossier to CAF could mark the beginning of a historic joint adventure.
The joint candidacy of the DRC and Congo-Brazzaville for the 2029 AFCON is more than just a sporting project: it is an initiative that carries within it a vision of cooperation and regional integration. If successful, it could be a major turning point for African football and for relations between these two neighboring countries.t the ability of these three states to realize their vision of renewed Sahelian cooperation.