El Hadji Diouf backs Ethiopia’s bid to host 2029 AFCON

Senegal and African football legend El Hadji Diouf said he will work to bring the 2029 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to Ethiopia. The former striker is in Addis Ababa, having become a brand ambassador for Wanaw, an Ethiopian sportswear company.

Diouf visited the East African nation in late 2024 and is lobbying for Ethiopia to host the 2029 AFCON. Speaking to Tikvah Sport, Diouf said he will work collectively to achieve the mission. “Ethiopia wants to host the 2029 AFCON. We will work hard so that Ethiopia can host the 2029 AFCON. Because you guys deserve it. We know the people here love football. That’s why we are here to promote this.”

Ethiopia last hosted AFCON in 1976. The last major football tournament Ethiopia hosted was the 2001 African Youth Championship. The Ethiopian Football Federation has received strong backing from the Ethiopian government to bid for the 2029 AFCON. A nationwide stadium inspection is already underway by the EFF as the country gears up its efforts to host the tournament.

Diouf urged the people of Ethiopia to support the national team, claiming that the future of Ethiopian football is bright. “The future of Ethiopian football will be one of the best in Africa. So I call on the people to get behind the national side.”

Recent results of the national team have not been satisfying for fans, and the EFF hopes to change the narrative.