2025 AFCON: King Mohammed VI absent as Senegal lift AFCON trophy in Rabat

King Mohammed VI did not attend the trophy presentation following the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, an absence that became one of the talking points after Senegal’s dramatic title win on Sunday night.

Senegal were crowned African champions after edging hosts Morocco 1–0 in extra time at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, sealing their second AFCON crown and adding to the title they won in 2022.

As Sadio Mané and his teammates celebrated on the pitch, attention briefly shifted to the stands, where many had expected Morocco’s monarch to present the trophy. Instead, it was Prince Moulay Rachid, the King’s younger brother, who stepped forward to hand over the famous silverware.

Prince Moulay Rachid’s presence ensured the Moroccan royal family was officially represented at the closing ceremony, even as the host nation absorbed the disappointment of defeat on home soil.

The absence of King Mohammed VI was not entirely unexpected. The 62-year-old monarch has made few public appearances in recent months due to reported health concerns, and he was not seen at any point during the month-long tournament despite Morocco hosting the event.

Royal duties linked to AFCON 2025 were instead shared among other members of the family. Earlier in the competition, Prince Moulay El Hassan, the King’s eldest son, attended several matches and was present at the opening fixture on 21 December at the same Rabat stadium.

While Senegal’s triumph will be remembered for its drama and late twist in extra time, the King’s absence from the final ceremony added a quieter, symbolic footnote to a tournament that placed Morocco at the centre of African football for weeks.