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Rabat – Côte d’Ivoire forward Nicolas Pepe has issued a public apology to Moroccan fans after comments he made about Morocco’s lack of continental titles which sparked outrage ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
In a video that circulated on social media, Pepe joked about Morocco’s trophy record, saying the team had “no stars” and suggesting they might have won one “back in 1818.” The remarks were widely criticized, with some responses even crossing into racist abuse.
With the backlash growing just days before the tournament kicks off in Morocco, Pepe posted a statement on his personal account. “We were joking all day, exchanging banter with everyone. There was no intention to offend.”
He wrote. “I apologize to Moroccan fans if my words were misunderstood or taken negatively. Earlier in that same video, I spoke about the strength of Morocco and how tough they will be to face. We are all brothers on this continent. Let’s stand together against racism.”
The incident has reignited debate about football rivalry, fan behavior, and the dangers of hate speech in African sport. Morocco, hosting this year’s AFCON, enters the competition as one of the favorites after a strong World Cup run in 2022.
Meanwhile, Ivory Coast coach Emerse Fae announced his final 26‑man squad for the tournament, leaving Pepe out despite his regular role at Villarreal and recent call‑ups.
The squad features players such as Franck Kessie of Al‑Ahli, Manchester United’s Amad Diallo, and forwards Sebastien Haller and Wilfried Zaha. Ivory Coast will compete in Group F alongside Cameroon, Gabon, and Mozambique.
For Pepe, the apology may help ease tensions, but his absence from the squad means the focus now shifts to his teammates as the Ivory Coast head into the tournament as defending champions, having won the title at home in 2023.
