The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is not just a tournament of skill and passion but also one governed by strict regulations. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) and world governing body FIFA have, over the years, enforced suspensions on several member nations for violating established rules. As Morocco prepares to host the 35th edition starting December 21, 2025, it is noteworthy that the host nation itself has a history of facing such sanctions.
Notable Nations Suspended from AFCON
The reasons for bans vary widely, from government interference in football administration to withdrawals from hosting duties. Here is a detailed look at seven countries that have previously been excluded from the prestigious continental competition.
Morocco's Double Suspension
Morocco faced significant sanctions from CAF following its abrupt withdrawal from hosting the 2015 tournament. The nation cited concerns over the Ebola virus outbreak and requested a postponement, which was rejected by the continental body. CAF's executive committee ruled that the reasons given did not constitute force majeure. Consequently, the Atlas Lions were banned from the 2017 and 2019 editions of AFCON for failing to fulfill their hosting obligations.
South Africa's 40-Year Absence
Perhaps the most prolonged exclusion in football history was that of South Africa. Due to the international sporting boycott against the apartheid regime, Bafana Bafana were barred from all competitive football, including AFCON, for approximately 40 years. This meant missing 18 editions of the tournament. Their reinstatement in 1992 was followed by a fairytale victory, as they were crowned African champions on home soil in 1996.
Government Interference: Kenya, Zimbabwe, Sierra Leone, Chad
Government meddling in football federation affairs is a recurring theme that has led to multiple bans. Kenya and Zimbabwe were both barred from the 2023 AFCON. Kenya's ban came after the government forcefully removed Football Kenya Federation president Nick Mwendwa and installed a caretaker committee, a clear breach of FIFA statutes on non-interference. Zimbabwe faced a similar fate, though its ban was lifted later, allowing it to qualify for the 2025 edition.
In 2019, Sierra Leone was suspended from the AFCON qualifiers after the country's Anti-Corruption Commission ejected the football federation chairman. FIFA stepped in to enforce the ban until the situation was resolved.
Chad was disqualified from the 2021 AFCON qualifiers after its Ministry of Sports suspended the national football federation. This direct government action led CAF to disqualify the team, causing them to miss the tournament proper.
Nigeria's 1998 Ban
The Super Eagles of Nigeria were not spared from CAF's disciplinary actions. The team was banned from the 1998 Africa Cup of Nations as a direct consequence of Nigeria's withdrawal from the 1996 edition, which was hosted by South Africa. This decision was made under the military administration of General Sani Abacha.
Looking Ahead to Morocco 2025
As the football world turns its attention to Morocco for the 35th AFCON, the history of suspensions serves as a stark reminder of the rules that bind the beautiful game on the continent. The tournament, running from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, will see the host nation, once a banned party, now aiming for its first title since 1976. For other nations like Nigeria, the past is a lesson in the importance of adhering to international football governance.
