Angola head coach Patrice Beaumelle has expressed strong criticism of the Federation of International Football Association, FIFA, over its decision to change the mandatory player-release date for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
FIFA recently postponed the release date from December 8 to December 15, a move largely seen as influenced by pressure from European clubs.
The change contradicts FIFA’s own standard 14-day compulsory release period for major international tournaments.
As a result, most qualified nations are now expected to adjust their preparation schedules ahead of the tournament.
Beaumelle accused FIFA of not showing African football the respect it deserves.
“FIFA only needs Africa during elections, but it doesn’t value our competitions like AFCON or give them the recognition they deserve,” he said.
The AFCON 2025 finals are scheduled to take place from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.
