AFCON 2025 Heads to Morocco: Motsepe Clears the Air and CAF Keeps the Faith

AFCON 2025: Motsepe Sets the Record Straight

CAF president Patrice Motsepe confirmed at the 49th General Assembly in the Republic of the Congo that the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 will proceed on its scheduled date on Moroccan soil, ending weeks of speculation about postponement or withdrawal from Morocco.

The remarks were made in the opening remarks of CAF’s General Assembly, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino and numerous national federation heads present. Motsepe underscored that rumors about delaying the tournament or changing the host have no basis, and he expressed confidence that Morocco is ready to deliver an exceptional edition.

He noted that the rumors coincided with social protests in some Moroccan cities, where youths called for improvements in health, education, and jobs, but he stressed that these demonstrations do not affect the country’s preparations for the continental event.

“I have visited Morocco many times in recent months and witnessed the enormous effort to upgrade infrastructure, stadiums, and training facilities,” Motsepe said. “I have no doubt that Morocco will present the best edition in the history of the tournament. Organization is moving smoothly, facilities are at the highest level, and Morocco, by nature, is a welcoming country that will greet fans with Africa’s warmest hospitality.”

Finances and Preparations on Track

He added, “The Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco will be the most successful ever; there is nothing more to add.” The remarks came as the federation presented CAF’s financial report, delivered by Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the Moroccan Football Federation and CAF’s vice president and finance chair.

Lekjaa highlighted the key challenges CAF faced in recent times, especially in funding development and diversifying revenue. He affirmed that CAF’s financial situation is stable and promising, noting that the federation continued to support member associations facing economic or financial hardship. He also stressed that CAF’s focus has been on increasing revenues from both club and national competitions to incentivize higher performance and better continental tournaments.

In addition, Lekjaa announced ongoing talks to secure new partnerships and agreements to bolster CAF’s resources, with the financial report reportedly approved unanimously by the assembly. World football body FIFA’s Infantino offered financial and technical backing, pledging ongoing cooperation to help member associations improve infrastructure and conditions in Africa.

Morocco’s Readiness Praised by Global Football Leaders

In a decisive move to quell rumors, Motsepe and CAF secretary Veron Mosengo-Omba stressed Morocco’s full readiness to host the continent’s flagship event. Mosengo-Omba cited recent field visits to Moroccan cities, confirming the progress of stadiums, training facilities, and hotels tasked with housing the participating teams.

“Work is advancing at an excellent pace, and all stadiums will be ready on time; some facilities are already ahead of the schedule. Training venues and accommodations exceed the requirements of the bid book,” Mosengo-Omba said, praising Morocco’s contributions and hospitality.

Motsepe also said that Morocco is no longer just capable of hosting AFCON but is a strong candidate for hosting future global tournaments, noting the country’s significant infrastructural development across the sporting sector. He added, “Morocco is a pioneer in African football. We trust it to deliver a historic, festive, well-organized tournament that will showcase the continent’s hospitality.”

"Infantino Expresses Admiration"

Infantino, speaking during the assembly, shared his admiration for what he had witnessed in Morocco—quality stadiums and robust sporting infrastructure. He added that he participated in the handover of the ‘trophy’ and expressed confidence that the forthcoming AFCON will be among the finest in Africa’s history, reflecting the continent’s recent football advances.

“No Official Delay”

Lekjaa closed his remarks by denying any link between domestic protests and a potential tournament delay, stressing Morocco’s stability and readiness to host a continental event befitting Africa’s heritage. He declared: “Morocco is determined to stage an exceptional AFCON that reflects the continent’s reputation; everything is on plan and we will meet everyone’s expectations.”

In closing, Lekjaa emphasized that the country’s achievements on and off the pitch reinforce confidence in Morocco’s ability to deliver a standout edition that resonates with fans across Africa.

Punchline time: If the stadiums were a Netflix series, this AFCON would be season two with a big budget and fewer cliffhangers. And if you think the fans are loud now, wait until they hear the soundtrack—the Moroccan drums are coming with a full HD surround sound upgrade. And yes, even the pigeons have season tickets—so watch your head, ball may be flying fast!