Cote d’Ivoire’s triumphant national football team, fresh off their remarkable victory at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), received a grand accolade on Tuesday in Abidjan, as they were honored and celebrated for their historic achievement.
In a ceremony held at the presidential palace, President Alassane Ouattara bestowed prestigious distinctions upon the players and managers, recognizing their outstanding contribution to the nation’s sporting legacy.
The recipients were elevated to various ranks within the National Order of the Republic of Cote d’Ivoire, with four individuals attaining the esteemed rank of Commander, twelve as Officers, and thirty-four as Knights.
President Ouattara, through Prime Minister Robert Beugre Mambe, announced significant tokens of appreciation for the AFCON champions.
Each of the twenty-seven selected players received a luxurious villa valued at 50 million CFA francs, accompanied by a monetary award of 50 million CFA francs. The technical management was also generously rewarded, with a total sum of 400 million CFA francs allocated, while coach Emerse Fae received 100 million CFA francs.
The Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) was not left out, as they were honored with a substantial reward of 300 million CFA francs in recognition of their pivotal role in nurturing and guiding the national team to glory.
President Ouattara expressed his profound pride and gratitude towards the players and management, acknowledging their ability to unite the Ivorian people through their stellar performance on the football field. The president hailed them as true champions, attributing their success to their remarkable talent, dedication, and unwavering unity.
With their triumphant 2-1 victory over Nigeria, Cote d’Ivoire secured their third AFCON title, igniting celebrations across the nation. The team was greeted by jubilant crowds during a parade in the streets of Abidjan, followed by a spectacular concert at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny stadium, symbolizing the immense pride and joy they have brought to the Ivorian people.
