AFCON 2025:- No Alcohol, No Lasers As CAF Tightens Stadium Rules
The Confederation of African Football has released an official list of prohibited items for all tournament venues, confirming a ban on alcohol and laser pointers.
The regulations, announced ahead of the tournament’s kickoff in December, are aimed at ensuring a safe, fair and family-friendly environment at Africa’s flagship football competition.
CAF said the decision to outlaw laser pointers follows repeated incidents across African club and international matches where the devices were used by spectators to distract players, particularly goalkeepers, during crucial moments.
The issue has drawn increasing criticism from teams, match officials and football analysts, with concerns that such incidents damage the global image of African football.
In line with Moroccan law and cultural regulations, CAF also confirmed that the sale and consumption of alcohol will be strictly prohibited inside and around all six AFCON 2025 host stadiums.
The ban extends to glass bottles, cans and similar containers, in line with international safety standards for major sporting events.
CAF said the measures reflect Morocco’s commitment to hosting a secure, well-organised tournament while fully complying with national regulations.
CAF confirmed that the following items will not be permitted at any AFCON 2025 venue:
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 exceeding approved size limits
Banners or materials carrying political, religious or offensive messages.
The restrictions form part of a wider security framework jointly developed by CAF and Moroccan authorities, which includes extensive training programmes for security commanders and personnel across all host cities.
With leading African stars such as Mohamed Salah, Victor Osimhen and Achraf Hakimi expected to feature, CAF said its priority is to ensure that attention remains firmly on the football as Morocco prepares to host AFCON 2025.
