Abidjan, March 25, 2025 – The Confederation of African Football (CAF) faces an unexpected crisis after Ivory Coast withdrew as host of the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), just weeks before the tournament’s kickoff.

In a statement released by the Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) on Monday, President Yacine Idriss Diallo confirmed the country’s decision to step down, citing an official letter from the government that described the “impossibility of hosting” the competition. While specific reasons were not disclosed, insiders suggest financial and logistical difficulties played a key role in the sudden move.

Diallo, who also chaired the tournament’s organizing committee, expressed disappointment but extended gratitude to everyone involved in the preparations. “We regret this decision but remain committed to working with CAF as they determine the way forward,” he said.

The U-20 AFCON, originally scheduled from April 26 to May 18, 2025, now faces uncertainty as CAF scrambles to find a new host. Ghana, one of the teams set to compete, is currently holding a training camp in Morocco as part of their preparations.

CAF is expected to announce alternative plans soon to ensure the tournament proceeds without further disruption.