The Confederation of African Football and the Local Organising Committee have unveiled the Official Mascot for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, named ‘Assad’. Assad means lion.

New Telegraph reports that the tournament will commence on Sunday, December 21, 2025, and end on Sunday, January 18, 2026.

According to a Monday release on the CAF website, Assad is “inspired by the Atlas lion, one of Morocco’s most iconic national symbols and a unifying and powerful figure across the African continent.

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His name, meaning ‘lion’ in Arabic, embodies strength, pride, and cultural authenticity that resonates deeply with fans both in Morocco and throughout Africa.”

CAF highlighted that as “an ambassador for the tournament, Assad embodies the joy, passion, and energy that define Africa’s most prestigious football competition.

“He will play a crucial role in building an emotional connection and engaging audiences of all ages, especially children and families, who are central to football’s culture and its future.”

The mascot “will play a leading role in fan engagement across stadiums, fan zones, and community events. He will support global marketing and promotional campaigns, enrich digital content and interactive experiences, and contribute to CAF’s long-term brand narrative.”

On Assad’s design, CAF said, “His visual identity centres on a friendly, youthful lion whose expressive features and energetic personality reflect the warmth, creativity, and diversity of Africa.

“His colour palette and overall style align seamlessly with the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025 brand, ensuring a unified and dynamic tournament look.”

CAF also said, “Assad has been created not only for TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025, but for the future of African football.

He will continue to feature in CAF grassroots and youth development programmes, school and community football initiatives, and future digital storytelling.

As a long-term ambassador for African football, Assad aims to inspire and connect with the next generation across the continent.”

The release concluded, “With Assad leading the way, the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025 is poised to deliver an unforgettable experience, celebrating unity, pride, and the power of African football.

“The introduction of Assad represents a major milestone in shaping the tournament’s character and deepening its cultural impact.”