Following their withdrawal as hosts of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, it has been confirmed that Cameroon will instead host the 2021 edition.

The decision comes as something of a surprise as the 2021 AFCON was already scheduled to be held in Ivory Coast. However, CAF have instead decided to allow Cameroon another chance to do the honours.

In a statement, Africa’s football governing body said “Cameroon has officially accepted to host the Afcon 2021 through an official letter addressed to CAF. [It is] signed by the Cameroonian Head of State, His Excellency Paul Biya.”

“The CAF President thus expresses his gratitude to President Biya for his profound understanding.

CAF therefore rejects all the unfair and totally unfounded different interpretations.

CAF reaffirms that on 30 November 2018; the Executive Committee met in a peaceful atmosphere and took decisions in a free and independent manner, respectful of the statutes and regulations” the statement reads

However, Ivory Coast are not completely satisfied with the decision and have submitted an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. As a response, it is believed that they will now host the 2023 AFCON which was previously scheduled to be held in Guinea who may be pushed back to the following edition.