The Football Association of Zambia have submitted a bid to host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals, President Andrew Kamanga has confirmed

Countries had until this past Friday to throw their hat in the ring and Zambia have done just that as they hope to host the competition for the first time.

“We believe our bid stands a very good chance given that Southern Africa has not hosted any AFCON since the 2013 edition staged by South Africa,” Kamanga said.

“We also have taken a closer look at the requirements which puts a minimum of six stadia broken down as two with a capacity of at least 40,000 and another four that will have a capacity of at least 20,000.

“On our part we already have two CAF certified venues in the National Heroes and Levy Mwanawasa, while four other existing stadia will be upgraded to at least 15 and 20,000 capacity.

“Government has agreed to build from scratch in Livingstone a 20,000 capacity stadium which will already supported by top class accommodation, as well as an international airport.

“Part of the catalyst for this bid is the guaranteed government support that has already come through with the signing of all the guarantees required by CAF. Government has directed all sports associations to take advantage of any international events that are open to hosting as part of its wider international diplomacy agenda.

“We will draw heavily on the 2017 Under-20 AFCON that was one of the well-organized tournaments. Given the strides that our teams are making, we have no doubt that with the strides our various national teams are making, 2025 could prove a moment of triumph on home soil.

“CAF is expected to conduct inspections in January while the successful bidder will be announced in February.”