Withdrawal of Algeria from the CAN Organization: Behind the scenes of the Decision
Algeria, despite its vast oil and gas resources, currently finds itself in a costly diplomatic impasse for the country. This situation is highlighted by the sudden withdrawal of Algeria from the race to organize the African Cup of Nations (CAN) for the 2025, 2027 and 2029 editions.
Algeria’s diplomatic challenges
Algeria has long aspired to organize the CAN, but its diplomacy has been marked by repeated failures. This time, the competition for the organization of the CAN has highlighted the need for real diplomacy rather than simple speeches and public relations operations. Government-controlled television channels and regime spokespersons were unable to hide Algeria’s failure to secure the organization of the CAN.
The role of Waleed Saadi
The president of the Algerian Football Federation, Waleed Saadi, newly elected or appointed, played a key role in this decision. After his meeting with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, it was announced that Algeria was withdrawing from the race. It is important to note that this decision was made knowingly, as Algeria knew that it faced fierce competition from Morocco, Senegal, Nigeria and Benin for future editions of the CAN.
Moroccan diplomacy
Algeria recognized that Moroccan diplomacy was clearly superior to its own. Morocco has a strong track record in sports diplomacy and knows how to win the support of African countries. The result is unequal competition, where Algeria is comparable to a novice swimmer throwing himself into a turbulent river, while Morocco is a heavyweight champion.
The Senegalese challenge
The competition for the organization of CAN 2027 against Senegal is similar to a featherweight boxer facing a heavyweight champion. Senegal, with its football expertise and ability to mobilize resources, was a formidable competitor for Algeria. This reality had to be taken into account in the decision to withdraw.
The Nigerian enigma
The competition with Nigeria for the organization of CAN 2029 was like a sprinter specialized in short-distance races facing a long-distance runner. Algeria realized that Nigeria was a serious competitor with considerable resources and experience in organizing large-scale sporting events.
Rather than admitting its diplomatic weaknesses and failure in the face of rising African countries such as Morocco, Senegal and Nigeria, Algeria chose to justify its withdrawal with absurd accusations and allegations. The country should have recognized the efficiency of its African neighbors and adopted an approach based on work, competence, responsibility and intelligence. Unfortunately, the mentality of the Algerian regime still seems stuck in the past, which only reinforces the bitterness of its new defeat, this time in the field of sports diplomacy in Africa.
