No Alcohol, No Lasers As CAF Tightens Stadium Rules for AFCON 2025

In collaboration with the Local Organizing Committee for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nation, the Confederation of African Football has released an official list of prohibited items for all tournament venues, confirming a ban on alcohol and laser pointers.

The regulations are aimed at ensuring a safe, fair and family-friendly environment at Africa’s top football competition.
CAF said the decision to outlaw laser pointers follows repeated incidents across African club and international matches where the devices were used by spectators to distract players, particularly goalkeepers, during vital moments.

The issue has drawn increasing criticism from teams, match officials and football analysts, with concerns that such incidents damage the global image of African football.
In line with Moroccan law and cultural regulations, CAF also confirmed that the sale and consumption of alcohol will be strictly prohibited inside and around all host stadiums.

The ban extends to glass bottles, cans and similar containers, in line with international safety standards for major sporting events.

Items ban are: Weapons, sharp objects and pyrotechnics, including flares, fireworks and explosives.
Also Laser pointers, Alcohol, illegal substances, Glass bottles, cans, Large bags, backpacks exceeding approved size limits, and Banners or materials carrying political, religious or offensive messages.
The restrictions form part of a wider security framework jointly developed by CAF and Moroccan authorities.

PR/Kevin Nwabueze