As the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 approaches, with the opening match scheduled for December 21, 2025, between hosts Morocco and Comoros at Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah in Rabat, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has published a detailed list of items prohibited inside all tournament stadiums. The guidelines, referenced across multiple reports citing CAF's official communications, aim to prioritize spectator safety, maintain order, and ensure a seamless match-day experience amid expected large crowds.
The 35th edition of Africa's premier national team competition will feature 24 qualified teams competing across six venues in Morocco until the final on January 18, 2026. This marks Morocco's second time hosting the AFCON, following the 1988 tournament, and comes after the event was rescheduled from mid-2025 to avoid clashing with the expanded FIFA Club World Cup. CAF, in collaboration with the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and Moroccan authorities, has emphasized enhanced security protocols, including mandatory screenings for all attendees.
According to reports drawing directly from CAF's guidelines, fans will undergo thorough security checks upon entry. The prohibition list is designed to prevent potential hazards, disruptions, and violations of Moroccan law, particularly regarding alcohol and public behavior. A key highlight is the complete ban on alcohol sales and consumption inside and around stadiums, aligning with national regulations and cultural norms. Additionally, laser pointers have been singled out for a zero-tolerance policy due to past incidents where they were used to distract players, posing risks to fair play and safety.
The comprehensive prohibited items include:
- Weapons of any kind, sharp objects, or items that could be used as weapons
- Fireworks, flares, smoke bombs, pyrotechnics, explosives, or flammable materials
- Bottles, cans, glass containers, or any breakable items
- Alcohol, alcoholic beverages, illegal substances, narcotics, or stimulants
- Large bags, backpacks, suitcases, or bulky items (no storage facilities available)
- Laser pointers or devices that could interfere with play
- Animals or pets (except certified service animals in some cases)
- Umbrellas (large ones), helmets, or items that could obstruct views
- Noise-making devices such as trumpets, horns, whistles, vuvuzelas, drums, megaphones, or loudspeakers
- Food and drinks from outside (exceptions for medical needs or infants)
- Cigarettes, lighters, or smoking-related items (stadiums are smoke-free)
- Flags or banners exceeding 1-2 meters in size, or those with political, offensive, racist, discriminatory, or provocative messages
- Professional cameras, drones, or recording equipment without accreditation
- Hazardous chemicals, gas sprays (e.g., pepper spray), or irritant substances
- Balls of any kind, toilet paper rolls (due to potential for throwing), or powdery substances
- Electronic devices capable of jamming signals, disrupting broadcasts, or interfering with IT systems
These restrictions build on lessons from previous CAF events, including the recent African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 in East Africa, where similar bans were enforced to curb crowd trouble. Violations may result in item confiscation, denial of entry, expulsion from the stadium without refund, or legal action.
CAF and the LOC have urged fans to travel light and familiarize themselves with the rules to avoid delays. Stadium gates will open several hours before kickoff, and re-entry is prohibited once spectators exit. Children under 16 must be accompanied by adults, and those under three are discouraged for safety reasons. All attendees, including minors, require a valid ticket and Fan ID via the upcoming Yalla app, which also facilitates e-visas for international supporters.
The measures reflect broader efforts to elevate AFCON's global standards, especially as Morocco prepares for co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Security personnel have undergone specialized training, and coordination with Moroccan authorities ensures robust crowd management. This proactive approach addresses past issues in African football, such as fan disturbances or object throwing, while promoting a family-friendly atmosphere.
Excitement is building across the continent, with powerhouses like defending champions Ivory Coast, Egypt (led by Mohamed Salah), Nigeria (with Victor Osimhen), and hosts Morocco (featuring Achraf Hakimi) among the favorites. The tournament promises high-stakes football, but organizers stress that safety remains paramount.
Fans are encouraged to check official channels for updates, as rules may be adjusted based on specific venue requirements or emerging risks.
