The Confederation of African Football (CAF) officially awarded Morocco the hosting rights for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in September 2024. The decision came after Guinea was stripped of the tournament in 2022 due to infrastructure and preparedness concerns. Morocco, which had been the sole bidder, will host the tournament for the second time, having previously done so in 1988.
The selection is seen as a strategic move, leveraging Morocco's existing modern stadiums and transport infrastructure, much of which was developed or upgraded for its co-hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal. This existing capacity was a key factor in CAF's decision, ensuring the tournament can be delivered on schedule.
Analysts note the hosting duties will provide a significant economic boost for Morocco through tourism and investment. However, the decision has also reignited diplomatic tensions, particularly with Algeria, due to the longstanding dispute over Western Sahara. Algeria's football federation had previously withdrawn from hosting the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in protest of Morocco's involvement.
The tournament is scheduled for June and July 2025, marking a return to the summer calendar. This will be the first 24-team AFCON held in Morocco, promising a large-scale continental event.
