2015 AFCON at Risk as Ebola Fears Grip Morocco and Football Community
Uncertainty looms over the hosting of the 2015 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco due to rising concerns about the Ebola virus outbreak devastating parts of West Africa. The North African nation, initially set to host the tournament, has officially requested the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to postpone the event, citing public health and safety concerns.
The apprehension is widely shared beyond Africa. Jean-Michel Aulas, president of French club Olympique Lyonnais, expressed his concern in comments to the media:
“It’s something to think about. We sent a letter to FIFA last week. I’ve asked the club doctor to put this issue on the agenda so that all clubs are concerned; it’s a matter of security.”
Aulas’ worries are grounded in the presence of African internationals at his club, including Algeria’s Mehdi Zeffane, Burkina Faso’s Bakary Koné, and Cameroon’s Clinton N’Jie and Henri Bedimo.
The Ebola epidemic has already impacted the AFCON qualifiers, forcing the relocation of several matches to neutral venues. The virus has triggered global concern, with countries like Spain also on high alert after isolated cases. In response, the French Football Federation has started awareness initiatives across Ligue 1 to inform clubs about the risks and preventive measures surrounding the deadly virus.
As the clock ticks toward the scheduled kick-off, the future of AFCON 2015 remains uncertain. CAF faces growing pressure to either reschedule or relocate the tournament to ensure the safety of players, staff, and fans alike.
