CAF president Patrice Motsepe has expressed strong confidence in Morocco’s ability to successfully host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), despite the wave of anti-government protests currently unfolding in parts of the country.
For over a week, young Moroccans have filled the streets to express frustration over corruption, social inequality, and limited access to essential services such as healthcare and education. Sunday marked the ninth straight day of demonstrations calling for political reforms.
Motsepe, however, is convinced the unrest will not disrupt preparations for Africa’s premier football event.
Speaking at a gathering of African football leaders in Kinshasa on Monday, he said, “We are fully confident that the tournament will go ahead as planned. Morocco is plan A, Morocco is plan B, and Morocco is plan C.”
He emphasized CAF’s unwavering support for the host nation, assuring that the organization would work closely with the Moroccan government and its people to deliver a remarkable tournament.
The 2025 AFCON is set to run from December 21 to January 18, featuring 24 national teams competing across nine venues. Fans can expect top African stars like Mohamed Salah of Egypt and Achraf Hakimi of Morocco to headline the competition.
This marks Morocco’s second time hosting the continental championship, the first being in 1988. The North African nation was also scheduled to host the 2015 edition but withdrew due to the Ebola outbreak at the time.
Motsepe also provided updates on the African Football League, which debuted with high hopes but faced restructuring challenges after its 2023 launch. “Discussions are ongoing, and we’re pleased with the progress. The African Football League remains an important project, and it will continue,” he said.
Since assuming office in 2021, Motsepe has prioritized financial transparency and sustainability within CAF. The organization recently reported a net profit of $9.48 million for the 2023–2024 fiscal year, with projections of a $28.45 million surplus for the next cycle.
“In the last five years, our revenues have quadrupled,” he noted. “We have zero tolerance for corruption—every cent goes into football development.”
Under his leadership, funding for member associations has doubled. CAF now provides $100,000 to clubs that fail to reach the group stages of the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup to assist with logistics and travel costs.
Motsepe reaffirmed his vision for African football, stating, “We want to improve players’ earnings, support national teams, and continue to build football across Africa.”
