World Cup returns to Africa after 24 years: ICC unveils logo and 12 venues

The ICC Men's Cricket World Cup is set to return to the African continent after 24 years, with South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia jointly hosting the 2027 edition.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday (July 30) unveiled the tournament's official logo, brand identity and all 12 host venues at a launch ceremony in Johannesburg.

The tournament will be staged under the theme "Three Nations, One Heartbeat," inspired by the African philosophy of Ubuntu—"I am because we are."

According to the organisers, the brand reflects unity, diversity and shared identity across the three host nations and aligns with the ICC's global campaign, "Make the Circle Bigger."

The official tournament logo draws inspiration from the traditional African wire bowl, while its colour palette reflects the region's identity with shades named Zimbabwe Chili, African Root, Fynbos Pop, Namib Dune, Harare Dawn and Two Oceans.

South Africa will host matches at eight venues:
Wanderers Stadium (Johannesburg)
SuperSport Park, Centurion (Tshwane)
Newlands (Cape Town)
Kingsmead (Durban)
St George's Park (Gqeberha)
Mangaung Oval (Bloemfontein)
Boland Park (Paarl)
Buffalo Park (East London/KuGompo)

Zimbabwe's three venues are:
Harare Sports Club
Queens Sports Club (Bulawayo)
Fale Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium (Victoria Falls)

Namibia will host matches at the Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek, marking the country's first time staging a senior ICC global tournament.

ICC Chairman Jay Shah described the launch as a significant milestone on the road to the 2027 World Cup.

"This marks the beginning of an exciting journey that will unite fans across the globe. After 24 years, the World Cup is returning to Africa, and we are confident South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia will deliver a memorable tournament showcasing the region's warmth, passion and diversity," he said.

ICC Chief Executive Sanjog Gupta said the tournament would celebrate a continent rich in culture, passionate cricket supporters and remarkable people.

The launch ceremony featured several cricket icons, including Graeme Smith, Makhaya Ntini, Hashim Amla, Temba Bavuma, Kagiso Rabada, Hamilton Masakadza and Rudolf Janse van Vuuren.

The last time Africa hosted the ODI World Cup was in 2003, when South Africa, Zimbabwe and Kenya co-hosted the tournament.

The 2027 World Cup will feature 14 teams, although the ICC is yet to announce the venues for the opening match, semi-finals and final. The full match schedule will be released at a later date.