The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has reaffirmed its confidence in Morocco as host of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), despite growing anti-government protests over public spending priorities and youth unemployment. In recent weeks, demonstrations led by young activists have erupted in more than a dozen Moroccan cities, criticizing the government’s focus on massive stadium projects while basic services like healthcare and education remain underfunded. Protesters have rallied under the banner of Gen Z 212 named after Morocco’s country code chanting slogans such as “There are stadiums, but where are the hospitals?”
At a press conference following CAF’s annual general assembly on Monday, CAF President Patrice Motsepe dismissed speculation about a possible change of venue for the tournament. “Morocco is plan A, Morocco is plan B, and Morocco is plan C,” Motsepe said. “We are confident that the country will deliver one of the most successful Africa Cup of Nations tournaments in history.” The Africa Cup of Nations is set to begin on December 21, 2025, featuring 24 national teams competing over four weeks. CAF’s first vice president, Fouzi Lekjaa, who also heads Morocco’s Football Federation and serves as a government financial adviser, is leading the country’s preparations.
Morocco has invested heavily in new infrastructure as it prepares not only for AFCON 2025 but also to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal. The country’s $5 billion sports infrastructure plan includes the construction of the Hassan II Stadium in Casablanca expected to seat 115,000 fans and become the world’s largest football arena alongside expansions to the Grand Stade de Tanger (75,000 capacity) and Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat (70,000 capacity).
Critics, however, argue that these vast sums are being spent while ordinary Moroccans face rising living costs, high youth unemployment, and struggling public services. The protest movement has gained support from public figures, including national team stars Sofyan Amrabat and Yassine Bounou, who expressed solidarity with the demonstrators online. CAF has stressed that it continues to work closely with Morocco’s government to ensure the tournament proceeds smoothly. “We see football as a unifying force,” Motsepe added. “It’s an opportunity for Morocco and all of Africa to showcase our excellence to the world.”
