AFCON 2025: CAF bans Alcohol and lasers during games

The Confederation of African Football (CAF), in collaboration with the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025, has confirmed a comprehensive list of prohibited items for all tournament venues, including a strict ban on alcohol and laser pointers.

The new measures, announced ahead of the tournament’s December kickoff, are aimed at ensuring a safe, fair, and family-friendly environment at Africa’s biggest football event.

CAF’s decision to outlaw laser pointers follows repeated incidents across African clubs and international competitions where fans used the devices to distract players, particularly goalkeepers, during important moments.

“The use of laser pointers is a blatant form of cheating and a dangerous safety hazard. CAF is sending a clear message that there will be zero tolerance for any action that endangers players or undermines the integrity of the game,” a LOC official said.

The governing body has faced mounting pressure from teams, officials, and analysts to clamp down on the practice, which has often drawn negative global attention to African football.

In line with Moroccan law and cultural norms, the sale and consumption of alcohol will be strictly prohibited inside and around all six AFCON 2025 host stadiums.

The ban also extends to glass bottles, cans, and similar containers, reinforcing safety standards for large-scale sporting events.

CAF and the LOC stressed that the policy reflects Morocco’s commitment to delivering a secure and well-organised tournament while respecting national regulations.

CAF reiterated that the following items will not be allowed into stadiums:

Weapons, sharp objects, and pyrotechnics (including flares, fireworks, and explosives)

Laser pointers

Alcohol and illegal substances

Glass bottles, cans, and similar containers

Large bags and backpacks beyond approved size limits

Banners or materials with political, religious, or offensive messages

The restrictions form part of a wider security framework jointly developed by CAF and Moroccan authorities. This has included extensive training programmes for safety commanders and security personnel across all host cities.

With African superstars such as Mohamed Salah, Victor Osimhen, and Achraf Hakimi expected to headline the tournament, CAF says the priority is to keep the spotlight firmly on the action on the pitch.