Uncertainty Surrounds 2015 Africa Cup of Nations Amid Ebola Fears
By BBC Sport Africa
The fate of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) hangs in the balance as the Confederation of African Football (CAF) scrambles to secure a host country, following Morocco’s request to postpone the tournament due to the Ebola epidemic. The tournament is officially scheduled for 17 January to 8 February 2015, but whether it will go ahead as planned remains uncertain.
Morocco, initially designated to host the 30th edition of the continent’s premier football event, has not withdrawn its commitment entirely. Instead, citing public health concerns, it has asked for a postponement, fearing the spread of Ebola into its territory. The virus has already claimed over 4,500 lives, primarily in Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, prompting widespread concern across Africa.
In a statement released on Friday, the Moroccan Ministry of Youth and Sports reiterated the country’s desire to host the tournament, stating:
“Morocco’s position is unambiguous: the request for postponement follows the rapid and worrying evolution of the Ebola virus, in light of reports from the World Health Organization.”
Morocco has emphasized that its request stems from health considerations, not from a lack of preparedness. The ministry confirmed that “alternatives” are being explored and that preparations continue ahead of an important meeting with CAF officials.
However, CAF has rejected Morocco’s request to delay the tournament and is now urgently searching for a backup host. Letters have reportedly been sent to at least seven football federations, inquiring whether they would be willing and able to organize the competition on short notice.
Ghana is the only nation, so far, to respond positively. Its Minister of Sports, Mahama Ayariga, confirmed the country’s readiness to step in, despite domestic concerns raised by health professionals. In contrast, South Africa, which hosted the tournament in 2013, has declined the invitation.
CAF is expected to discuss the matter in detail during an executive committee meeting scheduled for 2 November in Algiers, where the possibility of postponement, relocation, or even cancellation may be debated.
For now, African football fans remain in suspense. With the start of the tournament just weeks away, the question remains: Should the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations go ahead amidst the Ebola crisis? The clock is ticking for CAF to decide.
