Rabat: FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Morocco on Monday for being “exceptional hosts” of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which he described as a “fantastic tournament.” “Well done to Morocco on a fantastic tournament, both as runners-up and exceptional hosts,” he stated in a post on social media. “My sincere thanks to His Majesty King Mohammed VI for His constant support of football,” Infantino said. He also thanked President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) and FIFA Council member Fouzi Lekjaa for his commitment to the game.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, Infantino expressed regret over the “unacceptable scenes on the field and in the stands” during the final between Morocco and Senegal. He condemned the behavior of some supporters, as well as certain Senegalese players and technical staff members. The FIFA president deemed it “unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner,” emphasizing that “violence cannot be tolerated in our sport.”

Infantino urged the importance of respecting decisions made by match officials both on and off the field. He insisted that teams must compete within the laws of the game, as failing to do so “puts the very essence of football at risk.” He highlighted the responsibility of teams and players to “act responsibly and set the right example for the fans in the stadiums and millions watching around the world.”

Concluding his remarks, Infantino stated that the “ugly scenes” witnessed during the final must be condemned and never repeated. He expressed his expectation that the relevant disciplinary bodies at the Confederation of African Football (CAF) will take appropriate measures to address the incidents.