The Africa Cup of Nations Organizing Committee has rejected complaints raised by the Senegalese Football Federation over security and logistical arrangements ahead of the final, saying all measures were in line with competition regulations and continental standards.
In a statement issued Saturday, the committee detailed the arrangements provided to Senegal throughout the tournament as it responded to concerns raised by the federation in the days before the final against Morocco.
Senegal cited issues related to security during team movements, accommodation in Rabat, access to training facilities, transport options and ticket allocations for players and staff.
Organizers said Senegal stayed at the Fairmont Tazi Palace in Tangier throughout the competition, which was designated as the team’s official base camp. All of the team’s matches were played at the Grand Stade de Tanger under conditions that met Confederation of African Football standards.
The committee said the decision to travel by high-speed train between Tangier and Rabat was made independently by the Senegalese Football Federation. It added that the federation publicly shared the team’s arrival date and time at Rabat-Agdal station, which led to a gathering of supporters.
Responding to security concerns, organizers said Moroccan authorities deployed officers from the General Directorate of National Security, auxiliary forces, dedicated vehicles and regular station security services. No incidents, threats or disruptions to public order involving the Senegalese delegation were reported.
Regarding accommodation in Rabat, organizers said Senegal, like all participating teams, was given a choice between two transit hotels. Hotel Rihab in central Rabat had previously hosted Tanzania and Cameroon. Senegal chose the Amphitrite Palace in Skhirat.
The Mohammed VI Football Complex was originally scheduled as Senegal’s training site. The federation instead opted for the auxiliary pitch at the Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex, which organizers said was provided.
The committee said Senegal received its regulation five percent allocation of tickets for the final, as outlined by the Confederation of African Football.
Shortly afterward, the Senegalese Football Federation issued a statement praising the swift intervention of Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, in resolving the issues faced by the Senegalese delegation. The federation said all matters were handled in a spirit of brotherhood, mutual respect and sporting cooperation.
The tournament began Dec. 21, 2025, and ends Jan. 18, 2026. It has drawn steady attendance in host cities and wide approval from officials, teams, media and fans.
