T he Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), taking place in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, is drawing attention not only to football but also to its title sponsor, TotalEnergies. As a major sponsor for several editions, the French energy multinational is facing a fierce campaign led by African environmental NGOs calling for a ban on this partnership.

On the side of NGOs like Greenpeace Africa, the opposition is direct. They accuse TotalEnergies of "greenwashing"—projecting an eco-friendly image while continuing controversial oil and gas projects across the continent. "It is a slap in the face for Africans paying the price of the climate crisis," Greenpeace stated, highlighting the rise in weather-related disasters in Africa over the last decade. Environmental activist Sherelee Odayar added: "People are losing their lives, homes, and livelihoods because of fossil fuels. TotalEnergies claims to be sustainable but continues its drilling." A satirical sketch by the "Journal Rappé" collective further amplified these criticisms, which were reported by RFI.

TotalEnergies, for its part, defends its involvement as a strategic and responsible partnership. The company highlights its growing investments in renewable energy—including in Africa—and argues that its AFCON sponsorship promotes sport as a vehicle for unity and sustainable development. "We are supporting the energy transition while backing African football, a major economic lever," a spokesperson said, noting that the multi-year agreement with CAF generates essential revenue for the continental body.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) insists on the vital importance of this sponsorship. With record prize money and increased global visibility thanks to TotalEnergies, AFCON benefits from financial support that boosts the African football economy, creates jobs, and funds infrastructure. "Banning this partnership would deprive the continent of a major asset for sporting development," argued CAF, rejecting calls for a ban in the name of the autonomy of sporting bodies.

This standoff illustrates the growing tensions between sports business, ecological transition, and energy geopolitics in Africa. As the AFCON tournament continues, this debate could influence the future of sporting partnerships on the continent.