As anticipation builds ahead of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025, the tournament experience has already begun for thousands of fans not inside stadiums, but at the very moment they arrive in the country. Morocco has transformed its major international airports into welcoming gateways that reflect the scale, prestige, and cultural richness of Africa’s flagship football competition.
From the instant supporters step off their flights, they are immersed in an atmosphere of celebration. Airports, particularly Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport, have been adorned with striking AFCON branding, large-format visuals, digital displays, and themed décor that signal the beginning of a month-long football festival. The approach underscores Morocco’s intention to deliver a world-class tournament experience that starts well before the opening match.
The airport transformation is the result of close coordination between Morocco’s National Airports Office (ONDA), the Local Organizing Committee, and the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Together, they have worked to ensure that arrival points are not only operationally efficient but also vibrant and fan friendly. Enhanced passenger flows dedicated welcome signage, multilingual assistance, and trained staff have been put in place to manage the expected influx of supporters, officials, teams, and media representatives from across the continent and beyond.
Beyond logistics, the airports have been positioned as cultural showcases. Visual elements celebrate African unity, football heritage, and Moroccan hospitality, creating an emotional connection with visitors as soon as they arrive. For many travelling supporters, this first impression sets the tone for their entire AFCON journey, reinforcing a sense of excitement and belonging.
The opening match of AFCON 2025 is scheduled to take place in Rabat, where host nation Morocco will face Comoros at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. The tournament will run for four weeks, featuring Africa’s top national teams competing across multiple host cities. Expectations are high, both on and off the pitch, as Morocco aims to deliver one of the most memorable editions of the competition.
Moroccan authorities view AFCON 2025 as more than just a football tournament. It is a strategic opportunity to showcase the country’s growing capacity to host major international events, following successful experiences in global sports and large-scale conferences. By integrating hospitality, infrastructure, and cultural presentation, Morocco seeks to reinforce its position as a leading destination for sports tourism in Africa and the wider world.
Fans arriving from various African capitals have responded positively to the airport experience, describing it as energizing and well-organized. Many have noted that the festive atmosphere begins immediately, long before they reach their hotels or stadiums. For first-time visitors, the welcoming environment also offers reassurance and a sense of connection to the host nation.
The airport initiatives are part of a broader nationwide readiness programme. Transport networks, accommodation facilities, security arrangements, and fan engagement zones have all been strengthened in preparation for the tournament. Authorities have emphasised that AFCON 2025 is intended to leave a lasting legacy, not only in sporting achievement but also in infrastructure development, service quality, and international perception.
Importantly, the focus on arrivals reflects a growing understanding that major sporting events are defined as much by the fan experience as by the matches themselves. By paying attention to the earliest touchpoints airports, transport hubs, and public spaces Morocco is signaling its commitment to excellence in event hosting.
As teams finalize preparations and supporters continue to pour in, the message is clear: AFCON 2025 is already underway. The roar of the crowd may still be days away from echoing through stadiums, but the spirit of African football is alive and vibrant from the moment visitors set foot on Moroccan soil.
With the red carpet firmly rolled out, Morocco stands ready to welcome Africa not just to a tournament, but to a celebration of unity, passion, and the beautiful game.
