AFCON 2017: FIFA president backs Libya’s hosting bid

Tripoli – FIFA President Joseph Blatter has said that the World Football Governing Body would support Libya’s bid to host the 2017 Orange African Cup of Nations.

Blatter disclosed this on the sidelines of the 35th General Assembly of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) held at the weekend in Marrakech, Morocco.

“Libya has a bright future in football and will be well-equipped in terms of infrastructure,” the president said.

Blatter said that FIFA had also approved the first free elections held by the Libyan Football Federation, and would provide the necessary support for the country, which is currently going through an important period in its history.

Also speaking on the issue, the President of CAF, Issa Hayatou, renewed the African football governing body’s support to Libya to host AFCON 2017.

Libya was to host AFCON 2013 but the event was moved to South Africa following instability in the country.

Hayatou said although the vote for the 2017 host had not been conducted, all CAF executive members have expressed their willingness to see Libya host the tournament. (PANA/NAN)