Rabat, December 21, 2025 — On the occasion of the kickoff of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025, the General Directorate of National Security (DGSN) has rolled out a comprehensive, integrated, and adaptive security strategy designed to ensure the smooth conduct of the tournament through January 18. This security architecture seeks to safeguard players, officials, and sporting infrastructure, while above all guaranteeing the safety and peace of mind of the millions of national and international supporters expected across the Kingdom.
As part of this effort, the Director General of National Security and Territorial Surveillance conducted a field visit on Sunday afternoon to the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat, accompanied by the Wali of Security for the capital and senior central security officials. The visit focused on reviewing the security and safety protocol established for the opening match between Morocco and the Union of the Comoros, as well as all measures put in place to manage crowd flows, secure sports facilities, and ensure optimal conditions for fair and spirited competition.
During this on-site inspection, all areas dedicated to spectators were thoroughly reviewed. Detailed briefings were also provided on the operation of the command and coordination centers, connected to an advanced network of surveillance cameras tasked with monitoring the stadium in real time. In addition, a fully operational police station integrated within the stadium has been established to ensure the strict and effective enforcement of the law, including regulations specifically related to sports security.
A central pillar of this security framework is the establishment of an African Police Cooperation Center, created specifically to support the security dimension of AFCON 2025. This center brings together representatives of the security services of participating countries, alongside delegates from FIFA, the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Interpol, as well as security officials from Qatar, Portugal, and Spain. This unprecedented configuration underscores the international scope and cooperative spirit underpinning Morocco’s approach.
Furthermore, the DGSN has developed tailored security and safety protocols for each individual match, taking into account anticipated attendance levels and the specific nature of each fixture. Security coverage has also been extended to fan zones and public gathering spaces across host cities, with the objective of meeting the highest international standards of public safety and crowd management.
In a parallel effort to strengthen long-term capacity, all units dedicated to sports security have undergone a comprehensive upgrade, including reinforced staffing levels, enhanced logistical resources, and the adoption of a distinctive visual identity to ensure clear recognition in the field. Border police units have likewise been reinforced with additional personnel to respond swiftly and effectively to the significant influx of foreign supporters traveling to Morocco, while also contributing to the training and supervision of civilian staff responsible for internal stadium security (stewards).
Through this ambitious and meticulously coordinated deployment, the General Directorate of National Security aspires to make AFCON 2025 a benchmark for security excellence, commensurate with Morocco’s growing continental and international standing. The overarching objective is unequivocal: to provide a safe, seamless, and welcoming environment that ensures the protection of people and infrastructure, as well as smooth mobility throughout all stages of the tournament.
