CAF Confident Morocco Will Host AFCON 2025 Despite Protests

Patrice Motsepe, President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), has firmly affirmed that Morocco will host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), despite ongoing daily youth protests in the country demanding governmental reforms. Motsepe emphasized that Morocco is Plan A, B, and C for hosting the tournament scheduled from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, dismissing any rumors of relocation. The protests, which focus on social inequalities and demands for improved health and education services, will not affect Morocco's capacity to stage the event, according to CAF. The tournament will feature 24 national teams competing across nine venues in six Moroccan cities, with stars like Mohamed Salah and Achraf Hakimi expected to participate. CAF plans to collaborate closely with the Moroccan government and citizens to ensure the event's success, aiming to deliver the most successful AFCON in history. Additionally, Motsepe highlighted CAF's financial growth and ongoing efforts to revive the African Football League alongside organizing AFCON.