Algerian journalist warns of AFCON 2025 withdrawal, denounces e-visa system

Algerian sports commentator Hafid Derradji has raised the prospect of Algeria withdrawing from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, denouncing the tournament’s new electronic visa system for Algerian fans.

In comments carried by Barlaman Today on Monday, Derradji warned that "Algeria might withdraw" from the competition in protest at the requirement, describing the system as "a failure".

He claimed that the Algerian Football Federation is considering taking the case to the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

"The Algerian side is studying the possibility of filing a complaint with CAF and withdrawing from the competition. It is the least the Algerian Football Federation can do, Derradji said, according to Footboom1.

The row centres on Morocco's decision to integrate visa issuance for Algerian fans into a digital 'FanID' system, linked to the Yalla app that will also manage ticketing and stadium access. Under the new rules, Algerian and several other supporters will need to obtain FanID clearance to enter stadiums or even approach restricted fan zones.

Derradji claims this will prevent Algerian fans from attending matches freely, and says that Morocco’s system risks undermining the spirit of the continental tournament.

Ticketing has already been plagued by problems. According to Barlaman Today, ticket sales for AFCON 2025 were suspended days after opening, following widespread confusion and technical failures on the online platform.

The Moroccan organisers and CAF have since said a new date for ticket sales will be announced once the issues are resolved.

The controversy has unfolded against the backdrop of long-standing political tensions between Algeria and Morocco, whose diplomatic relations were severed in 2021.

Borders remain closed, and sporting encounters between the two nations are often overshadowed by disputes. Analysts say the introduction of an e-visa system, which Algerian fans argue places disproportionate obstacles on their participation, has quickly become another potential diplomatic flashpoint.

Despite Derradji’s warnings, neither the Algerian Football Federation nor CAF has made any official statement about a potential withdrawal.

The Algerian national team, a two-time African champion, is among the favourites for the tournament.

AFCON 2025 is scheduled to take place in Morocco from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.

Organisers have billed the competition as a showcase for Moroccan infrastructure and digital ticketing innovation, but critics say the rollout has highlighted organisational shortcomings.