Uncertainty Looms Over 2015 AFCON Host Nation Amid Ebola Concerns
With just weeks to go before the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, questions are mounting over whether Morocco will remain the host nation. The North African country has requested a postponement of the tournament, citing growing concerns over the Ebola virus outbreak that has claimed more than 4,000 lives across West Africa.
Originally scheduled to run from January 17 to February 8, 2015, the competition now faces an uncertain future as Moroccan authorities grapple with the potential health risks of welcoming large numbers of fans and teams from across the continent.
Speaking to AFP, Moroccan Sports Minister Mohammed Ouzzine clarified that Rabat has not pulled out of hosting the tournament but is urging caution. “It’s still too early to speak of a definitive decision,” he said. “Morocco has not refused to host the competition, but we have requested a postponement due to the health situation.”
In response to the request, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) issued a statement stressing that “no changes to the competition schedule are currently on the agenda.” However, the issue will be discussed at a meeting of CAF’s Executive Committee on November 2.
Despite Morocco’s official position, behind-the-scenes preparations for a potential change of venue appear to be underway. According to widespread reports, CAF has reached out to several countries as potential backup hosts should Morocco decide to withdraw. South Africa and Ghana are considered frontrunners, while Algeria, Sudan, and Gabon have also reportedly expressed interest.
The possibility of relocation has reignited debate about how to balance public health concerns with the continuity of international sporting events. While Ebola has largely affected countries such as Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea, the fear of cross-border transmission has prompted heightened health measures across the continent.
CAF’s leadership now faces a delicate decision: proceed as planned in Morocco under strict health protocols or seek an alternative host at short notice to safeguard the tournament and its stakeholders.
As it stands, the fate of the 2015 AFCON hangs in the balance, with Morocco’s final decision and CAF’s response likely to shape the immediate future of African football’s showpiece event.
