BFA backtracks on AFCON bid
Mqondisi Dube | Thursday October 2, 2014 12:07
The BFA released a statement this week saying while Zimbabwe had made a joint bid proposal, it had explored its feasibility but had resolved not to explore the possibility of co-hosting.
“The National Executive Committee explored the feasibility of the proposal and whilst it was felt the invitation was a novel one the Committee resolved not to explore the possibility of co-hosting this event nor taking part it its organisation in any form or shape,” said a statement written by BFA chief executive officer, Keith Masters. “This consideration is in lieu of the strategy of the Botswana Football Association to focus on hosting regional competitions prior to engagement at continental level,” reads the statement.
However, what is baffling is that the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) indicated that it had received a letter from Masters indicating the BFA was interested in the proposal.
In the letter Masters is quoted as saying they had accepted the proposal. “Please accept this letter as the BFA’s commitment to jointly hosting the finals with you. I will revert as soon as I have a response from the ministry.” However, sources said the BFA was forced to beat a hasty retreat after it emerged that it was not practical to lodge a bid document within days. The CAF deadline for bid submission was Tuesday this week.
Despite the BFA saying it had rejected Zimbabwe’s proposal, sources said the association’s officials had made contact with the Botswana National Sports Council (BNSC) and had scheduled meetings with the neighbouring country’s football authorities.