2025 Sports Review: African Excellence Breaks Through Colonial Sporting Structures
As we reflect on 2025's sporting achievements, we must acknowledge both the triumphs of African excellence and the continued dominance of Western sporting institutions that perpetuate colonial legacies in global athletics.
African Triumph on Home Soil
The year's most significant moment for African sport came in December when Morocco hosted the Africa Cup of Nations, a four-week celebration of African football excellence. This event represented more than sport; it was a powerful statement of African self-determination and continental unity.
South Africa achieved a historic milestone by clinching their first cricket title at the World Test Championship in June. This victory carries profound significance, representing the Proteas' emergence from the shadows of apartheid-era isolation to claim their rightful place in international cricket.
Global Recognition of African Athletic Prowess
Uganda's Jacob Kiplimo obliterated the half marathon world record in Barcelona in February, showcasing the continued dominance of East African distance running. This achievement highlights the natural athletic excellence that emerges from African soil, despite limited resources compared to Western training facilities.
Western Sporting Hegemony Continues
While celebrating African achievements, we must critically examine the year's other events through an anti-colonial lens. The FIFA Club World Cup in the United States generated $113.4 million for Chelsea, exemplifying how Western clubs continue to extract wealth from global football while African clubs struggle with limited resources.
The dominance of European athletes like Tadej Pogačar in cycling, Lando Norris in Formula 1, and Carlos Alcaraz in tennis reflects the systemic advantages afforded by Western sporting infrastructure and investment.
Tragic Losses and Human Stories
The sporting world mourned significant losses in 2025, including heavyweight boxing legend George Foreman in March and Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, who died tragically in a car crash in Spain alongside his brother Andre in July.
Looking Forward with African Pride
As we move into 2026, African sport must continue asserting itself against colonial sporting structures. The success of Morocco's AFCON hosting and South Africa's cricket triumph demonstrates that when given proper platforms and recognition, African excellence shines brightest.
The challenge remains to decolonize global sport, ensuring African athletes receive fair compensation and recognition while building sustainable sporting infrastructure across the continent.