AFCON 2025 in Morocco: Uncertainty Surrounds Death of Malian Journalist in Rabat
Malian journalist Mohamed Soumaré was found dead on Wednesday in his hotel room in Rabat, Morocco, where he was covering the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The exact cause of his sudden passing remains unknown, leaving a veil of mystery as the sports world awaits official findings.
The media and sports communities are in shock following the devastating announcement. Soumaré, a renowned sports consultant and a respected figure in the audiovisual landscape, was discovered on Wednesday morning, January 14, 2026, by hotel staff.
The 50-year-old, who travelled to Morocco to cover the final stages of the 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, was considered an iconic figure in Malian sports journalism. He had previously served as the Media Officer for Stade Malien de Bamako and held the position of Head of Marketing, TV, and Media for the Malian Professional League.
More than 24 hours after this body was found, no official statement has been released regarding the circumstances of his death. This lack of information has fueled speculation and raised significant questions, leaving room for confusion and growing suspicion among observers.
Pending the results of the investigation, emotions remain high among colleagues and sports delegations. His death has been widely reported by the international press, particularly across the African continent. Soumaré was celebrated for his insightful analysis and unwavering commitment to promoting African football, earning him the reputation of a “respected and authoritative voice.” The news of his passing has sparked a wave of tributes across social media. Colleagues have described him as “a man of great professional rigor,” remembered for his generosity in mentoring the younger generation of journalists.
