Côte d’Ivoire withdraws as host of U20 Nations Cup weeks before kick-off

Côte d’Ivoire has announced its withdrawal as the host nation for the U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)with just a month to go before the scheduled start date.

The competition is scheduled to take place from 26 April to 18 May 2025.

The U20 Africa Cup of Nations is an important competition for the development of young African footballers, and its cancellation would be a significant blow to the continent’s football community.

The reasons behind Côte d’Ivoire’s withdrawal as host nation have not been made clear, though rumours point towards logistical challenges and finances.

The move has raised concerns about the country’s ability to host major international football tournaments in the future.

Côte d’Ivoire has a rich football history and has hosted several major tournaments in the past, including the Africa Cup of Nations.

CAF has to now work around the clock to find a new host nation for the tournament.

The organisation has a number of options to consider, but any new host nation will need to be able to meet the tournament’s logistical and infrastructure requirements at short notice.

CAF has promised to make a decision on the new host nation as soon as possible.