By Ibrahim Karim Bangura (Tanko)

The Shooting Stars of Sierra Leone and other U20 teams in Africa may no longer partake in the AFCON U20 tournament in Ivory Coast after the host country’s football body pulled out of hosting the tournament.

The sad news came as a shock with barely a month before the 2025 competition kicks off.

Reports say the Ivorian Football Association has formally informed the Confederation of African Football (CAF) of their decision to quit from hosting the tournament scheduled for this May 2025, just a year after being awarded the hosting responsibilities.

Sources indicate that CAF was made aware of FIF’s decision on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.

Temporarily, FIF said they appreciate the support they received from volunteers and other organizers in planning the event.

The tangible reason for FIF’s withdrawal was not made known in the letter. What is certain, however, is that the news has huge implications on CAF to seek a new host within the shortest possible time, considering the tournament is slated for next month.

The Sierra Leone FA is yet to comment on this latest development but provided updates on the preparation of the Shooting Stars team.