Sierra Leone Steps Aside as Host of the 3rd Africa Youth Cup
The Organizing Committee of the Africa Youth Cup has officially confirmed that the Government of Sierra Leone will no longer host the third edition of the Africa Youth Cup, which was initially scheduled to take place in April 2026.
In a formal communication to the tournament organizers, authorities in Sierra Leone expressed their regret that due to unforeseen circumstances, including newly scheduled initiatives and activities within the national sports sector during the current year, they would be unable to proceed with hosting the prestigious youth football event this year.
The Africa Youth Cup Organizing Committee has acknowledged the communication and expressed appreciation to the Government and football authorities of Sierra Leone for their earlier interest and willingness to host the tournament.
“We respect the decision communicated to us and remain grateful for the enthusiasm and commitment initially shown by Sierra Leone to support youth football development in Africa,” the organizers said in a statement.
The Africa Youth Cup is an international youth football academies tournament designed to provide a competitive platform for young football talents across Africa while fostering global football partnerships.
The maiden edition of the tournament was successfully hosted in Cape Verde in 2019 and featured participation from elite youth academies including the youth team of Benfica of Portugal.
Despite the unexpected development regarding the 2026 hosting arrangement, the organizers reaffirmed their commitment to the long-term vision of the tournament as a platform for youth development, talent discovery, and international collaboration in football.
“The Africa Youth Cup remains a project dedicated to empowering young players, strengthening football academies, and connecting African talent with global opportunities,” the statement added.
The Organizing Committee is currently consulting with partners and stakeholders across the continent as part of a strategic review aimed at repositioning and strengthening the tournament’s structure for future editions.
All registered Football Academies, Football Federations, and International Special Guests have been informed accordingly, and we greatly appreciate their understanding and continued cooperation.
The organizers say they remain open to future collaboration with Sierra Leone and look forward to working together in advancing youth football development across Africa in the years ahead.
Further announcements regarding the next steps for the Africa Youth Cup will be communicated in due course.
