Ivory Coast withdraws from hosting the 2025 U-20 AFCON just weeks before kick-off, citing government logistical and financial concerns.
Rumors are rife that Ivory Coast have formally withdrawn hosting the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The surprise decision comes barely a month before the competition was scheduled to begin.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is now scrambling to find a new host, with potential options being considered urgently to avoid the possibility of postponement.
The biennial tournament, which also serves as a qualifying platform for the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile next year, was due to run from April 26 to May 18, 2025.
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The Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) confirmed the withdrawal in a press release on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, citing a government directive.
"By this letter, President Yacine Idriss Diallo, President of the FIF and President of AFCON U20, informs you that, through an official letter, the Government has notified the Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) of Côte d'Ivoire's withdrawal as host country of the U20 Africa Cup of Nations. In accordance with the instructions of the President of the FIF, the Executive Director transmitted this information to the Secretary General of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Tuesday, March 25, 2025," the statement reads as reported by SportsMania.
The government reportedly cited the “impossibility of hosting” the tournament, although it did not provide specific reasons in the official correspondence. However, multiple sources suggest that financial and logistical issues may have led to the decision.
Infrastructure strain following the successful organization of the senior AFCON earlier this year could also be a contributing factor.
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The withdrawal now raises questions about the country’s sporting infrastructure and government priorities.
CAF has yet to issue a public statement on the matter, though insiders suggest that the body is actively looking for an alternative venue. South Africa is rumored to be in contention to step in, but no official confirmation has been made.
If no suitable replacement is found soon, the tournament could be postponed—something CAF is keen to avoid, especially given its role as a qualifier for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.
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The top four teams from the U-20 AFCON will earn a spot at the global event, making the competition a crucial opportunity for Africa’s emerging football talents.