Speculation Mounts: African Cup of Nations 2025 Potentially Moved to Summer

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has reportedly given its provisional approval for the competition to be held in July-August 2025, with Morocco emerging as the likely host.

The proposed alteration aims to avert clashes with the inaugural 32-team Club World Cup slated for June 2025, a move endorsed by CAF President Patrice Motsepe. While precise dates for the rescheduled AFCON have yet to be divulged, an official from the competition committee hinted at a tentative agreement between CAF and the Moroccan Football Federation to stage the tournament during the summer months, specifically in July and August of 2025.

This potential shift in scheduling marks a departure from tradition for the prestigious tournament, which has historically taken place in January-February. The decision mirrors previous postponements of AFCON events, with the last two editions also experiencing delays. AFCON 2021 was ultimately held in January-February 2022 in Cameroon, while the most recent installment, officially dubbed AFCON 2023, kicked off on January 13 in Côte d'Ivoire, culminating in the host nation's triumphant victory a mere week ago.

Despite the impending adjustment, qualifying matches for AFCON 2025 have yet to commence. According to the CAF calendar, a preliminary round is scheduled to take place from March 18 to 26, setting the stage for what promises to be a fiercely contested tournament.

As anticipation builds and preparations unfold, football enthusiasts eagerly await further developments regarding the rescheduling of AFCON 2025, keenly aware of the tournament's significance in showcasing Africa's footballing prowess on the global stage.