AFCON 2025 set to break records with over a million tickets sold and unprecedented global reach

With ticket demand already surpassing the million mark and broadcast reach expanding across continents, the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco is shaping up to be a landmark edition even before a ball is kicked.

CAF secretary general Véron Mosengo-Omba said in Rabat on Tuesday that the tournament, scheduled from December 21 to January 18, is on course to become the finest Africa Cup of Nations ever staged.

Speaking at a press briefing outlining Morocco’s final phase of preparations, he described the competition as a global event and insisted that every major indicator points toward a record breaking tournament.

“We have never held an AFCON with such enthusiasm,” he said, noting that over one million tickets have already been purchased.

“The indicators are clear. We have never played an AFCON with nine stadiums,” he added, stressing that “the popular excitement for this tournament is unprecedented.”

Mosengo-Omba highlighted the unprecedented level of public interest, noting that more than one million tickets have already been sold. He stressed that the scale of infrastructure on offer sets this edition apart, pointing to the use of nine stadiums, a first in the history of the competition, all meeting what he described as world class standards.

The CAF official said the depth of preparation and facilities reinforces confidence that Morocco 2025 will redefine expectations in terms of competitiveness, organisation and commercial returns.

He also underlined the tournament’s expanding international footprint. An additional 18 European countries will broadcast the competition, bringing the total number of European broadcasters to 30, alongside coverage across all 54 African nations.

Media interest has matched that growth, with 3,800 journalists already accredited to cover the event, further elevating its global profile.

Mosengo-Omba reserved special praise for Morocco’s stadium infrastructure, singling out the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium as a standout venue.

He said the overall quality of facilities, combined with fan enthusiasm and organisational readiness, supports CAF’s belief that the upcoming edition will set new benchmarks across multiple fronts.

On the local organising side, Royal Moroccan Football Federation coordinator general Mouad Hajji echoed that assessment, describing the tournament as far more than a continental competition.

He said Morocco 2025 has taken on a global dimension, reflecting the scale of planning undertaken by CAF and the local organising committee.

Hajji emphasised that significant attention has been given to ensuring smooth mobility for supporters and visitors.

He pointed to Morocco’s road, rail and hospitality infrastructure as central pillars of the operational plan, aimed at guaranteeing efficient movement between host cities and a high quality experience throughout the tournament.