By: Julius Konton
Morocco’s successful hosting of the 35th African Cup of Nations (AFCON) from December 21, 2025 to January 18, 2026 has been hailed by King Mohammed VI as a landmark achievement for both the Kingdom and the African continent, underscoring Morocco’s growing role as a hub for sports diplomacy, infrastructure excellence and continental cooperation.
In an official statement released by the Royal Office, His Majesty King Mohammed VI expressed profound gratitude to the Moroccan people for their collective contribution to what has been widely described as one of the most professionally organized editions of Africa’s premier football tournament.
“His Majesty wishes to convey His gratitude to all members of the Nation who have contributed admirably to the full success of this wonderful event,” the statement read.
Nationwide Mobilization and Global Acclaim
Across host cities including Rabat, Casablanca, Tangier, Marrakech, Agadir and Fez, millions of Moroccans rallied behind the tournament, transforming stadiums and public spaces into arenas of celebration, hospitality and unity.
International football observers praised Morocco’s logistical coordination, security management and fan engagement, with matches broadcast to hundreds of millions of viewers worldwide.
The tournament benefitted from years of sustained investment in sports infrastructure.
Morocco has invested billions of dollars over the past decade in modern stadiums, transport networks, digital connectivity and hospitality facilities part of a broader national development strategy aligned with major international sporting standards.
Atlas Lions and a New Era of African Football
King Mohammed VI also paid tribute to Moroccan fans for their unwavering support of the national team, currently ranked among the world’s top ten football nations and widely recognized as a continental powerhouse following its historic semifinal run at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The Royal Office highlighted the role of Moroccan youth, including talented players from the Moroccan diaspora, whose decision to represent the national colors has strengthened team cohesion and competitiveness.
“Such remarkable results are the fruit of a high-level proactive sports and infrastructure policy, as well as the patriotic choice of talented youth of Moroccan expatriates,” the statement emphasized.
AFCON as a Development Showcase
Beyond football, the King described AFCON 2025–26 as a litmus test of Morocco’s development trajectory, reflecting a long-term vision that places citizens at the heart of national ambition.
The event showcased Morocco’s capacity to host mega-events while promoting social inclusion, economic opportunity and African integration.
Tourism authorities estimate that the tournament generated hundreds of millions of dollars in economic activity, boosted hotel occupancy rates nationwide, and enhanced Morocco’s global brand as a gateway between Africa, Europe and the wider world.
Appeal for Calm and African Brotherhood
Addressing regrettable incidents that occurred during the closing moments of the Morocco–Senegal match, King Mohammed VI called for restraint, reflection and unity, stressing that sporting rivalry must never undermine Africa’s shared destiny.
“Once passions have subsided, inter-African fraternity will naturally prevail, for this Moroccan success is also an African success,” the statement affirmed.
The Sovereign rejected attempts at denigration or discrediting, expressing confidence in the Moroccan people’s wisdom and commitment to peace and balance.
Morocco’s Enduring African Commitment
Reaffirming Morocco’s deep-rooted African identity, King Mohammed VI underscored centuries-old ties of cooperation, trade, spirituality and diplomacy linking the Kingdom to the rest of the continent.
Morocco has, in recent years, expanded partnerships in banking, renewable energy, agriculture, education and infrastructure across West, Central and East Africa.
“Nothing will alter the closeness fostered over centuries between our African peoples,” the statement declared.
In line with the King’s strategic vision, Morocco pledged to deepen its engagement in favor of a united, prosperous and self-reliant Africa, particularly through the exchange of expertise, knowledge and development experience.
As Africa looks ahead to future continental and global sporting events, Morocco’s AFCON 2025–26 stands as a benchmark, one that blends sporting excellence with diplomacy, development and solidarity.
In the words of the Royal Office, the Kingdom “is and shall remain a great African country, faithful to the spirit of brotherhood, solidarity and mutual respect.”
