CAF President Insists 2025 AFCON Will Proceed In Morocco Despite Nationwide Protests

CAF President Patrice Motsepe has reaffirmed that the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will go ahead in Morocco as planned, dismissing concerns that ongoing anti-government protests could disrupt preparations.

For more than a week, thousands of young Moroccans have taken to the streets nightly, calling for an end to corruption, government reforms, and better access to social services like healthcare and education. The demonstrations, now in their ninth day, have highlighted deep public frustration over inequality and living conditions.

Speaking during a meeting of African football leaders in Kinshasa, Motsepe said he was certain the tournament would not be affected by the unrest. “We are absolutely confident the AFCON will go ahead as planned. Morocco is plan A, Morocco is plan B, and Morocco is plan C,” he told delegates, including FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

He added that the Confederation of African Football would work hand in hand with the Moroccan authorities and citizens to deliver what he described as “the most successful AFCON in history.”

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is slated for December 21 to January 18 across nine Moroccan venues, with 24 teams expected to compete. Star players like Egypt’s Mohamed Salah and Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi are among those set to feature in the tournament.