A strong symbolic character. This Monday, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the organizing committee of the 2025 African Cup of Nations unveiled the mascot who will officiate during the competition which begins on December 21 in Morocco. This is Assad, a very smiling lion.
This character inevitably recalls the nickname of the Moroccan selection, “the Lions of the Atlas”, which hosts the competition. The first name was also chosen in this sense since it means “lion” in Arabic. “He embodies strength, pride and cultural authenticity, values which resonate deeply with supporters in Morocco as well as throughout Africa,” writes CAF in its presentation press release.
As in all tournaments, Assad will be responsible for hosting the pre-match, half-time and sidelines of the competition, particularly during Morocco’s matches. “He will play a key role in creating a lasting emotional bond with audiences and in mobilizing all generations, particularly children and families, who constitute the heart of African football culture and its future,” writes the African Confederation.
This mascot will continue to exist after the competition. As the press release explains, Assad “will continue to support CAF’s youth and grassroots development programs, school and community initiatives, as well as future forms of digital storytelling.” A true lasting ambassador of African football, Assad’s vocation is to inspire, bring together and pass on to new generations across the continent. »
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