Côte d’Ivoire has decided not to host the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) confirmed this in an official statement.

According to FIF President Yacine Idriss Diallo, the Ivorian government informed them about the decision through an official letter. However, no reason was given for the withdrawal.

This sudden change could lead to a delay in the tournament. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) now has less than a month to find a new host.

The Flying Eagles of Nigeria have already qualified for the competition, which was initially planned to be held in South Africa before Côte d’Ivoire was chosen. Now, CAF must quickly find an alternative venue for the tournament.