CAF inspections: what hosts, teams and fans need to know

CAF inspections decide if a stadium, hotel or training ground is fit for African competitions. Miss the checklist and a venue can be downgraded or rejected, which costs time, money and reputation. This page breaks down what inspectors look for, when checks happen, and how hosts can get ready so tournaments run smoothly.

What CAF checks during inspections

Inspectors focus on safety, pitch quality, facilities and broadcast capability. That means crowd control systems, fencing, emergency exits, and certified fire equipment. They check the playing surface for drainage, evenness and grass type. Dressing rooms must meet minimum size, plumbing and hygiene rules. Medical rooms need proper equipment and quick access from the pitch. Media zones, mixed zones and broadcast points get a close look to meet TV and radio standards.

Logistics also matter: transport routes, parking, security perimeters, and whether hotels meet accreditation rules. Power backup systems, lighting lux levels for night games, and VAR or camera positions are part of the technical review. If a venue hosts continental club competitions, scratch tests on turf or lighting readings can be required.

When inspections happen and typical timeline

CAF usually carries out a pre-event inspection months before the event and a final check days or weeks before kick-off. The pre-inspection flags big issues so hosts can fix them in time. Final inspections confirm fixes and set the venue status: approved, approved with conditions, or rejected. If problems remain, CAF can demand corrective plans or move matches to alternate venues.

Expect at least two visits: a technical inspection and a security/operations walk-through. For major tournaments, CAF may send additional teams for broadcast and medical audits. Hosts should treat each visit as a formal audit and keep records of repairs, tests and certifications.

Common failures include poor drainage, inadequate floodlights, substandard dressing rooms, missing medical equipment, and hotel issues like overbooking or lack of accreditation control. Small fixes—new signage, additional toilets, or upgraded first-aid kits—often solve problems quickly. Bigger issues like pitch relaying or structural repairs take longer and need early planning.

If you’re a host, appoint a single point of contact to coordinate with CAF, contractors and local authorities. Keep checklists, photos, and certificates ready. Teams should inspect travel times to stadiums and training sites. Fans should expect extra security checks and possible changes to ticketing or seating if a venue is approved with conditions.

Continental Scout Daily will post updates when CAF inspects major venues. Follow local organizers closely and treat CAF reports as the authority—fixes after an inspection rarely get second chances. Getting ready early keeps matches on schedule and fans happy.