World Cup 2026: Morocco café owners deny reports of drink price hikes

Morocco’s National Association of Cafe and Restaurant Owners has dismissed reports suggesting that drink prices will rise during the national team’s matches at the tournament.

The clarification comes after claims circulated on social media alleging that cafés and restaurants planned to increase prices as supporters gather to watch Morocco’s World Cup fixtures.

A member of the association told Le Site Info that the reports were entirely inaccurate and had no basis in fact. According to the association, business owners are instead focused on ensuring supporters can enjoy the matches in a welcoming and comfortable environment throughout the competition.

The representative stressed that cafés and restaurants intend to provide customers with the best possible conditions to follow the games, maintaining what was described as a normal and friendly atmosphere during the tournament.

The statement was issued as preparations continue across Morocco ahead of the World Cup, with many establishments expected to welcome large numbers of football fans eager to follow the national team’s progress.

Alongside the clarification over pricing, local authorities in Marrakech have introduced measures designed to facilitate public viewing of the matches.

The municipality has approved an extension of opening hours for cafés and restaurants during the tournament period. According to correspondence cited by Le Site Info, establishments will be permitted to remain open until 4 a.m. between June 11 and July 19.

The decision is intended to allow supporters to watch matches under favourable conditions throughout the World Cup, particularly given the scheduling of fixtures across different time zones.

Authorities have also reiterated their commitment to ensuring that the public can follow the tournament in cafés and restaurants while respecting all applicable legal and regulatory requirements.

The measures reflect efforts to accommodate football supporters during one of the biggest sporting events in the world, while business owners seek to reassure customers that reports of increased drink prices are unfounded.