Tunisia withdraws from CHAN 2025, fourth UNAF country to exit

Tunisia has officially decided to pull out of the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), joining Libya, Algeria, and Egypt in withdrawing from the tournament.

This decision leaves Morocco as the sole representative from the Union of North African Football Federations (UNAF) set to participate.

The announcement followed a unanimous decision reached during discussions between the Tunisian Football Federation (FTF) and the presidents of the country’s Ligue 1 clubs.

The federation cited an overloaded domestic football calendar as the primary reason for their withdrawal.

Packed Schedule Forces Decision

The FTF’s statement highlighted the logistical challenges posed by Tunisia’s busy football schedule.

With domestic competitions already occupying significant time and resources, participation in CHAN 2025 was deemed impractical.

Scheduled to take place from February 1 to 28, 2025, the tournament will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

CHAN, a competition exclusively for players active in their respective local leagues, has long been a platform to showcase homegrown talent.

However, Tunisia’s withdrawal reflects broader challenges faced by teams in the UNAF zone regarding scheduling and resource allocation.

UNAF Zone Faces Near-Total Absence

Tunisia’s exit marks the fourth withdrawal from the UNAF region, leaving Morocco as the only participating nation from the bloc.

Earlier decisions by Libya, Algeria, and Egypt to forgo the tournament had already raised concerns about UNAF’s representation in CHAN 2025.

The reduced participation could impact the tournament’s competitive balance and diminish the presence of North African football, traditionally a stronghold in continental competitions.

Focus Shifts to Domestic Priorities

For Tunisia, the decision underscores the importance placed on domestic competitions and other international commitments.

While the FTF has not elaborated on alternative plans during the CHAN window, the move suggests a prioritization of domestic league development and other pressing obligations.

This withdrawal signals a potential shift in how North African nations view CHAN, as logistical challenges and packed schedules take precedence over the tournament’s developmental opportunities.

As CHAN 2025 approaches, all eyes will be on Morocco, whose participation will now represent the UNAF region amidst a significantly reduced North African contingent.