CAF and FIFA have confirmed new regulations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, setting competition dates, player-release rules, and coordination measures ahead of the continental showpiece.
Tournament Dates: 21 Dec 2025 – 18 Jan 2026
Player Release Date: 15 Dec 2025 (7 days shorter than before) 
This adjustment aims to reduce tensions between national teams and European clubs during their active domestic seasons. Clubs and associations are encouraged to resolve disputes constructively, with FIFA stepping in as mediator if needed.
Players can still feature in both AFCON 2025 and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with no restrictions in place.
With these regulations finalized, preparations for Morocco’s AFCON are in full swing as nations gear up for the December kickoff!