Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe has reaffirmed his confidence in Morocco’s ability to successfully host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), despite growing anti-government protests across the country.
The North African nation is set to host the continent’s biggest football tournament from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, featuring 24 national teams competing across nine venues.
However, concerns have been raised over the country’s readiness amid widespread demonstrations led largely by young Moroccans. Protesters have accused the government of misplacing priorities — investing billions in infrastructure projects, including stadium construction and renovations for AFCON 2025 and preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, while neglecting critical public services such as healthcare and education.
Chants like “We want hospitals, not stadiums” have echoed through the streets of several Moroccan cities in recent weeks.
Speaking during the CAF Congress in the Democratic Republic of Congo on Monday, Motsepe dismissed fears of instability, emphasizing the confederation’s unwavering trust in Morocco’s capability to deliver a world-class event.
“We (CAF) are absolutely confident the AFCON will go ahead as planned,” Motsepe said. “Morocco is plan A, Morocco is plan B, and Morocco is plan C. CAF will cooperate and work with the government and all the citizens of Morocco to host the most successful AFCON in history.”
Motsepe’s comments come as Morocco continues to assure both CAF and fans worldwide of its readiness to stage a safe, memorable, and unifying continental football spectacle.
