Overview of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and Mobile Performance
The 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which concluded on January 18, 2026, marked a historic milestone as the tournament with the highest attendance and scoring rates ever recorded, drawing over one million spectators to the stadiums. This remarkable event coincided with Morocco's rollout of 5G technology, serving as a significant trial for upcoming preparations for the FIFA World Cup™ in 2030. This article delves into the mobile network performance experienced by fans in select stadiums during the tournament, highlighting the quality of online activities such as web browsing and video streaming.
Key Findings on Mobile Connectivity and User Experience
In terms of mobile performance, Al-Medina Stadium achieved the highest download speeds, reaching a median of 236 Mbps, while Rabat Olympic Stadium excelled with the fastest upload speeds. Across the analyzed stadiums, median download speeds ranged from 96 Mbps at Moulay El Hassan Stadium to a peak of 461.7 Mbps at Al-Medina Stadium, with inwi consistently leading in many venues. The web browsing experience was notably positive, with inwi providing the quickest page loading times in four out of the five stadiums reviewed. However, distinctions among operators were evident, particularly at Moulay El Hassan Stadium, where Maroc Telecom outperformed its competitors in real-time communication experiences. Furthermore, all mobile operators delivered impressive video streaming experiences, with sub-2-second start times, thus ensuring that fans could enjoy replays and highlights without delay.
Morocco has been strategically enhancing its mobile infrastructure in anticipation of the 2025 AFCON. The government has invested approximately USD 16.6 billion in various infrastructure projects, including upgrades to telecommunications, which are part of a broader initiative leading up to the 2030 World Cup. This collaboration among telecom regulators and operators has led to advancements in network capabilities, including the launch of 5G services, which are crucial for accommodating large crowds and ensuring a seamless online experience during major sporting events. The success of the AFCON has showcased Morocco's readiness to host the World Cup and highlighted the need for further improvements in network coverage and quality of service as the country prepares for its next significant challenge.
As reported by ookla.com.
