CAN 2025: Left out by CAF, Bouchra Karboubi announces her retirement

Bouchra Karboubi

Snubbed from the list of referees for CAN 2025, Bouchra Karboubi has decided to retire.

It's a major shock in Moroccan refereeing. Just weeks before CAN 2025, Bouchra Karboubi, a renowned official in the Kingdom, has announced her retirement. This news comes only hours after the publication of the list of referees selected for the continental tournament. Karboubi, who officiated at the last edition, was not included, with her male compatriots Jalal Jayed and Kach Grafe Mustapha being selected instead.

Bouchra's omission is surprising, given her experience, reputation, and international exposure, notably at the Women's World Cup and major African competitions. In response, Karboubi posted a statement, first reaffirming her deep connection to the nation, Moroccan football, and the institutional support she says she received over many years. She proudly recalled carrying the Moroccan flag on the world stage and emphasized that she always acted with a sense of duty and national representation.

But her tone shifted dramatically as she pointed to those she holds responsible for her departure. The former official directly accused the National Refereeing Directorate of putting obstacles in her path, hindering her progress, and undermining a personal project built on twenty-five years of dedication. According to her, certain internal decisions have even destroyed her future prospects.