Claude Le Roy criticizes CAF and FIFA over 2025 AFCON controversy

Former African football coach Claude Le Roy has renewed his criticism of CAF and FIFA over the controversial awarding of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations to Morocco, while clarifying that his remarks were not directed at the Moroccan national team.

Le Roy, who has managed several African national teams during his career, addressed the backlash to his earlier comments in a video posted on social media.

“I blame two shady characters… the president of CAF and the president of FIFA, but certainly not Morocco, which had absolutely nothing to do with this whole affair,” Le Roy said.

The French coach had previously accused the governing bodies of engaging in “shady dealings” after CAF stripped Senegal of the AFCON title and awarded it to Morocco—a decision that has fueled controversy across the continent.

Le Roy’s clarification comes amid heavy criticism in Morocco, where some interpreted his remarks as an attack on the host nation.

Despite his strong critique of the decision-making process, Le Roy praised Morocco’s organization of the tournament, calling it “the most beautiful AFCON in history.”

He maintained, however, that the final ruling remained questionable, reaffirming his concerns about the governance of African football.

🗣️ Claude Le Roy fait son mea culpa :

« Le Maroc a organisé la plus belle CAN de
l’histoire 🇲🇦🏆

Je n’ai rien contre les Marocains. » pic.twitter.com/tJpdZn2Cpo

— AtlasGoal (@AtlasGoal) March 21, 2026

Le Roy’s statements highlight ongoing tensions between African football authorities and critics who question the integrity of CAF and FIFA’s processes.

His comments also underscore the wider debate over transparency and fairness in continental football competitions, as the AFCON 2025 decision continues to spark heated discussion across the sport.

By separating Morocco from the controversy, Le Roy aims to calm misunderstandings while keeping pressure on football authorities to ensure accountability and credibility in future tournaments.