The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed that Morocco will host the Africa Cup of Nations as planned, despite ongoing protests against the government’s spending on stadiums. CAF President Patrice Motsepe said Morocco is the top choice for the tournament and there are no plans to change the schedule or location.
Morocco has been building several stadiums, including the world’s largest football venue, as part of its preparations to co‑host the 2030 Men’s World Cup with Spain and Portugal. The construction has sparked protests across the country, with demonstrators chanting slogans such as “There are stadiums, but where are the hospitals?” The mostly young activists are demanding better opportunities and more funding for healthcare and education.
The Africa Cup of Nations is set to take place from December 21, featuring 24 teams over four weeks. CAF’s president expressed confidence that the tournament will be a success despite the unrest. Morocco’s football chief, Fouzi Lekjaa—who also serves as a financial adviser to the government—is helping to fund part of the $5 billion budget for World Cup‑related projects.
Morocco was selected to host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations two years ago, replacing Guinea. The country plans to use nine stadiums, including the expanded Grand Stade de Tanger and the renovated Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. It is also building the Hassan II Stadium in Casablanca, which will have a capacity of 115,000 and is hoped to host the 2030 World Cup final. The 2030 World Cup will feature 48 teams and will open with a few matches in neighboring South American countries—Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay.
Hosting the Africa Cup of Nations is seen as a crucial step in Morocco’s preparations for the 2030 World Cup. With the tournament just weeks away, CAF and the Moroccan government will work closely together to ensure a successful and safe event for all participants and spectators.
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