Moroccan fans helped make 2026 World Cup ‘unforgettable’ – Gianni Infantino
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has praised Moroccan supporters for their relentless backing of the Atlas Lions during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying their presence and energy helped make the tournament a memorable spectacle.
Infantino highlighted the commitment of the Moroccan fans after their team reached the quarter-finals, with the supporters turning up in large numbers and maintaining their vocal support throughout the competition.
The FIFA chief said the atmosphere generated by Moroccan crowds added a distinctive dimension to the tournament while providing the national team with significant encouragement during its campaign.
‘Exceptional enthusiasm’ from Moroccan supporters
Writing on Instagram on Sunday, Infantino singled out the supporters for their contribution to Morocco’s impressive run in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
“Moroccan fans displayed exceptional enthusiasm in every 2026 World Cup match they attended,” Infantino wrote.
He said their commitment remained constant as the Atlas Lions progressed through the tournament, creating an atmosphere that left a lasting impression.
“Their continuous support backed their team throughout an unforgettable campaign all the way to the quarter-finals, amid an atmosphere that will remain etched in memory for years to come,” he added.
Morocco’s matches were characterised by a strong presence of red-clad supporters, whose chants and celebrations followed the team through both the group stage and knockout rounds.
For Infantino, that connection between the team and its supporters formed an important part of the tournament’s wider appeal.
Morocco extend World Cup rise
Morocco built on the historic achievement of reaching the semi-finals at the 2022 World Cup by securing another deep run on football’s biggest stage.
The Atlas Lions negotiated a demanding group phase before producing two notable knockout victories against the Netherlands and hosts Canada.
Their progression into the last eight reinforced Morocco’s emergence as a significant force in international football, following their unprecedented run in Qatar four years earlier.
Although their campaign ultimately ended in the quarter-finals, Morocco remained one of the teams to attract significant attention throughout the tournament.
Infantino used his message to underline the wider importance of supporters to the World Cup, arguing that their passion contributes directly to the character of the competition.
“The World Cup gains its unique character thanks to fans like these, and I thank them for all these moments,” he concluded.
The tribute from the FIFA president places Morocco’s supporters among the memorable features of the 2026 tournament, with their backing accompanying the Atlas Lions through another historic World Cup campaign.
