Morocco Requests AFCON 2015 Postponement Over Ebola Fears — CAF Holds Firm
In a stunning twist just as the third round of qualifiers for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is underway, Morocco — the designated host nation — has formally requested a postponement of the tournament due to the ongoing Ebola outbreak in parts of West Africa.
The competition, scheduled to take place from January 17 to February 8, is now at the center of uncertainty following Morocco’s appeal to the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
CAF wasted no time responding. In an official statement, the governing body acknowledged receipt of the request but reaffirmed its position:
“No changes are on the agenda of the calendar of its competitions and events,” CAF stated firmly.
Highlighting the historical consistency of the tournament, CAF added:
“Since the first edition in 1957, the African Cup of Nations has never been postponed or cancelled.”
CAF also emphasized that it has adhered to strict health protocols in line with World Health Organization (WHO) guidance, stressing that it is mindful of the health risks but has already implemented precautionary measures.
However, the door is not entirely closed. CAF announced it will officially examine Morocco’s request during an Executive Committee meeting on November 2 in Algiers, followed by a direct meeting with Moroccan authorities on November 3.
With the countdown to the tournament ticking, all eyes are now on CAF’s early November meetings — decisions made there could reshape the fate of the continent’s biggest football event.
