Cairo, 27 September 2023 – Morocco has been unanimously designated as the host country for the 35th edition of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025). This decision was reached during a meeting of the Executive Committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) held in Cairo, underscoring Morocco’s pivotal role as a host for major sporting events.
The decision to award AFCON 2025 to Morocco followed the withdrawal of Guinea as the original host due to a lack of adequate infrastructure and facilities capable of accommodating a world-class African Cup of Nations tournament.
Hosting AFCON 2025 is not only a prestigious opportunity for Morocco but also a significant platform to showcase its prominence on the international stage. This decision comes on the heels of the impressive performance of Morocco’s national football team, the Atlas Lions, in the recent Qatar 2022 World Cup.
Morocco has previously hosted the AFCON tournament only once in its history, in 1988, when the Atlas Lions secured a fourth-place finish after a semifinal exit at the hands of Roger Milla’s Cameroon. The 2015 AFCON was initially scheduled to take place in Morocco but was postponed due to concerns related to the Ebola virus.
AFCON 2025 will serve as a valuable dress rehearsal for Morocco, which is set to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal. The Kingdom has a wealth of experience in organizing major sporting events, ranging from the hosting of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in 2018 to multiple editions of the FIFA Club World Cup.
Morocco’s reputation as a capable host for international sporting events extends beyond football. The country has successfully organized events such as the African Women’s Cup of Nations in 2022 (with plans to host the 2024 edition as well) and the African Futsal Cup of Nations. Additionally, Morocco recently hosted the Women’s Champions League, which culminated in a victory for AS FAR.
The confidence placed in Morocco by African and international sporting bodies is a testament to the Kingdom’s commitment to comprehensive development. This commitment includes modernizing sports infrastructure, accommodations, and logistics in various regions of the country.
In summary, AFCON 2025 is bound to be a moment of nationwide jubilation, fostering unity and showcasing Morocco’s hospitality and ability to successfully organize major sporting events on a grand scale, be it at the continental or global level.
