The wait will finally be over. In just days, on December 21, the whistle will blow at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, and the 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations will begin.
But this isn’t just another AFCON. It is a historic winter tournament, a logistical revolution, and crucially, Morocco's grand dress rehearsal for the 2030 World Cup.
For the traveling fan, the sheer density of this tournament is a game-changer. Unlike previous editions spread across vast distances, AFCON 2025 is defined by the "Rabat Cluster" and the high-speed Al Boraq train line. You can wake up in Casablanca, watch a match in Rabat, and be in Tangier for a late kick-off.
Here is your definitive guide to the 6 host cities and the 9 stadiums that will define the next month of African football.
The Capital Hub: The "Rabat Cluster"
The Strategy: Uniquely, the capital city is hosting matches across four different venues. This allows for a massive concentration of teams (Groups A, C, D, and E all have matches here) without destroying the pitch of a single stadium.
1. Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay Abdellah
Status: The Crown Jewel
Capacity: ~69,500
Key Fixtures: Opening Match (Morocco vs. Comoros), Semi-Finals, The Final (Jan 18).
If you have a ticket for the final, this is where you are heading. Completely revitalized for 2025, the historic athletics track has been removed to bring fans closer to the pitch, and a stunning new roof covers the stands. This is the fortress for the Atlas Lions. Expect a deafening wall of sound, especially for the opener on December 21.
2. Stade Moulay Hassan
Status: The Modern Boutique
Capacity: ~22,000
Key Fixtures: Group E (Algeria’s Group).
Don't let the size fool you. Rebuilt from scratch specifically for this tournament cycle, Moulay Hassan is a state-of-the-art "English style" ground where the fans are right on top of the action. It will host the intense North African matchups for Group E, promising a cauldron-like atmosphere despite the smaller capacity.
3. Rabat Olympic Stadium (Annex)
Status: The Sidekick
Capacity: ~21,000
Key Fixtures: Group C (Nigeria’s Group).
Located in the same sporting complex as the main Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium, this creates a unique "Olympic Park" vibe. Fans can technically drift between the main stadium and the annex. It retains its athletics track, giving it a more open, spacious feel.
4. Stade Al Barid
Status: The Hidden Gem
Capacity: ~18,000
Key Fixtures: Group D (Senegal’s Group).
Tucked away in the Agdal district, this is the smallest venue in AFCON history for some time, but arguably the most charming. It features a unique "sunken" pitch design. For fans of Senegal and DR Congo, this intimate venue offers a rare chance to see superstars up close in a way giant arenas don't allow.
The Northern Powerhouse: Tangier
5. Ibn Batouta Stadium (Grand Stade de Tanger)
Status: The Giant
Capacity: ~75,000
Key Fixtures: Semi-Final, Major Knockout Ties.
This is currently the largest stadium in the tournament. Tangier has expanded this beast to prepare for 2030, adding a massive upper tier. It is famous for the "Blue Wave" of local fans and the strong winds coming off the Strait of Gibraltar.
Travel Tip: It is only 1 hour and 10 minutes from Rabat via the Al Boraq high-speed train.
The Historic Soul: Casablanca
6. Stade Mohammed V ("Donor")
Status: The Legend
Capacity: ~67,000
Key Fixtures: Group A matches, Quarter-Finals, 3rd Place Play-off.
While the futuristic Hassan II stadium is being built for 2030, the legendary "Donor" remains the spiritual home of Moroccan football. Located right in the densely populated Maârif district, the streets around this stadium will be a carnival 24/7. It’s gritty, loud, and historically significant.
The Tourist Hotspots: Marrakech & Agadir
7. Grand Stade de Marrakech
Status: The Architectural Beauty
Capacity: ~45,240
Key Fixtures: Group F (Ivory Coast / Cameroon).
Designed to mimic the city’s famous ramparts, this rectangular stadium is stunning at night. It is located on the outskirts of the city, so plan your transport (taxis or shuttle buses) in advance. It is the perfect venue for fans who want to combine elite football with a winter holiday in the Red City.
8. Adrar Stadium (Agadir)
Status: The Coastal Fortress
Capacity: ~45,480
Key Fixtures: Group B (Egypt / South Africa).
Built into the side of a hill to blend with the landscape, Adrar is famous for its acoustics. With Egypt and South Africa based here, Agadir will likely see the highest influx of international tourists enjoying the Atlantic coast's mild winter weather.
The Cultural Capital: Fez
9. Complexe Sportif de Fès
Status: The Traditionalist
Capacity: ~45,000
Key Fixtures: Group C Matches.
Fez brings the ancient history. The stadium features traditional Moroccan architectural touches (zellige tile work patterns). It is a classic bowl with a running track, but the passion of the local Masawi fans ensures it is never quiet.
Logistics: How to Move Around
The success of AFCON 2025 relies on the train. The ONCF (National Railway Office) is an official sponsor of the tournament.
The Al Boraq Line: Connects Tangier ↔ Kenitra ↔ Rabat ↔ Casablanca. This is your lifeline. It is fast (320km/h), reliable, and connects the three biggest stadiums.
The Atlas Line: Connects Casablanca ↔ Marrakech and Rabat ↔ Fez. Slower than the Al Boraq, but comfortable.
The Outlier: Agadir is not yet connected by train. You will need to take a CTM/Supratours bus from Marrakech or fly directly into Agadir Al Massira Airport.
Final Tip: Download the "AFCON 2025 Transport" app to book your free match-day travel (included with your match ticket) on the ONCF network.