FIF president issues public message as Ivory Coast approach AFCON title defence

Idriss Diallo delivers a public message of gratitude as Ivory Coast move into the final month of preparation for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Ivorian Football Federation president shared the message in a video posted on his Facebook page on Friday, 21 November 2025.

He thanked God and expressed appreciation to President Alassane Ouattara, who won re-election in the presidential vote on 25 October.

Diallo then addressed Ivorians directly. He thanked supporters for their encouragement, their prayers and their commitment throughout the Elephants’ recent campaigns.

He urged the country to continue backing the national team as they enter a crucial period before AFCON.

He also praised the work of the players, the technical staff and every department involved in the national team’s progress.

He noted that the group worked for nearly two years to secure qualification for both the 2026 World Cup and the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Diallo marked two years in office with a positive review of his leadership.

Ivory Coast lifted the 2023 AFCON title on home soil during his tenure, securing a third continental championship after a remarkable tournament run.

The Elephants also claimed their places at AFCON 2025 and the 2026 World Cup.

He highlighted several achievements across the national football structure.

Ivory Coast won the first African School Games at U16 level in Algeria, took bronze at the 2025 U17 AFCON in Morocco, won the WAFU B U17 tournament and claimed the WAFU B U20 title in Ghana in 2025.

The country earned qualification for the U17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco and the U17 World Cup in Qatar in 2025.

Ivory Coast now prepare to defend their African title at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, which runs from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.

The Elephants step into the tournament as champions and face 23 challengers as they attempt to keep their trophy.