World football governing body FIFA is set to open a comprehensive investigation into the officiating at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) following allegations of referee bribery during the tournament.
According to multiple reports, the probe will focus on claims that some match officials may have been compromised at various stages of the competition, which was hosted in Morocco.
The controversy has intensified in the aftermath of the final, with widespread criticism of refereeing decisions and growing calls for accountability across African football.
Sources indicate that several officials within the Confederation of African Football (CAF) are currently under scrutiny as part of the ongoing review.
While neither FIFA nor CAF has released an official statement detailing the scope of the investigation, it is understood that the process will involve a thorough examination of match reports, referee appointments, and any financial or communication records deemed relevant.
The alleged irregularities have raised concerns about the integrity of the competition, prompting strong reactions from fans, former players, and football administrators across the continent.
FIFA’s Ethics and Disciplinary bodies are expected to work closely with CAF to determine whether there were breaches of conduct and, if so, to recommend appropriate sanctions.
If the allegations are substantiated, the investigation could lead to severe consequences, including suspensions or lifetime bans for individuals found guilty, as well as broader reforms in referee management and oversight within African football.
AFCON 2025, one of the most widely followed editions of the tournament in recent years, continues to generate headlines well after the final whistle, with the outcome of FIFA’s investigation likely to have far-reaching implications for the future of officiating in African competitions.
