Egypt Abandons Campaign To Host 2017 Africa Cup Of Nations, Will Support Algerian Bid

Egypt Sports Minister Khaled Abdel-Aziz has confirmed his country has "abandoned its bid" to host the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations, according to the BBC. He said, "We have decided to withdraw our application and will support that of Algeria." Gabon and Ghana have also made bids, and the Confederation of African Football will announce the host on April 8. Abdel-Aziz did not "expand on the reasons behind the decision" but was talking after FIFA exec committee member Hany Abu Rida said that "it did not make sense for two Arab countries to compete against each other." The move comes after the death of 22 fans on Feb. 8, when police and supporters clashed before a game between Cairo clubs Zamalek and ENPPI. All domestic football is currently suspended (BBC, 2/23).