FIFA Sets December 15 as Official Release Date for AFCON-Bound Players
FIFA has announced December 15 as the official date for clubs to release players invited to participate in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), providing clarity ahead of the prestigious continental tournament.
The announcement means all clubs—both within Africa and across Europe and other continents—must make eligible players available to their national teams by the stipulated date. The early release window is aimed at giving teams adequate preparation time before the competition kicks off in Morocco.
The decision follows consultations between FIFA, CAF, and global football stakeholders to avoid conflicts with club schedules and ensure players arrive in full fitness for national duty.
The AFCON 2025 tournament is expected to draw worldwide attention as top African stars reunite to compete for the continent’s biggest football honour. National teams are now set to begin final training camps immediately after the release deadline, as preparations intensify.
