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CAF, LOC outline key plans as countdown to 2025 AFCON in Morocco intensifies
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
In preparation for a smooth and successful 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) held a virtual meeting with representatives of the 24 qualified national teams.
The meeting produced several important administrative, logistical, and technical resolutions aimed at ensuring the continent’s biggest football showpiece runs efficiently from start to finish.
CAF confirmed that each participating nation will be allowed to register a maximum of 28 players, selected from an earlier 55-man provisional squad. In addition, 17 backroom staff—comprising technical, medical, and administrative personnel—will be permitted per team.
To aid proper preparation, teams can arrive in Morocco up to five days before the opening ceremony, while clubs are mandated to release players by December 8, in accordance with FIFA regulations.
Discussions also covered visa processes for officials, training facilities, accommodation standards, doping and medical protocols, media obligations, and commercial procedures.
Coaches reportedly asked for additional technical seats behind the team benches, similar to what is obtainable in top European leagues, to improve real-time tactical analysis.
Delegations also emphasized the need for tight security and privacy around team hotels to prevent disruptions and maintain player focus throughout the tournament.
The LOC assured teams of full transport logistics, covering their stay from five days before their first match until 24 hours after their final game. The transportation package includes:
A 50-seater team bus
A dedicated vehicle for each head of delegation
An equipment truck
Complete airport and inter-city transfers
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will kick off on December 21, 2025, and run through January 18, 2026, as Morocco hosts an edition expected to be one of the most historic in the tournament’s history.
