Fouzi Lekjaa defends Morocco’s role in African football development amid influence concerns

Fouzi Lekjaa, President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), has dismissed criticism surrounding Morocco’s growing influence in African football, insisting the country’s ambitions should be viewed as part of a broader effort to uplift the continent’s game.

In an unfiltered interview with Onze Mondial, the Moroccan football chief addressed recent rumours and discussions about Morocco’s expanding footprint in African and global football governance, infrastructure, and competition hosting rights.

“Morocco cannot be blamed for seeking to pull African football upwards,” Lekjaa stated, defending the country’s strategic investments and long-term vision for the sport.

His comments come amid ongoing debates in football circles about Morocco’s rising profile, both as a sporting powerhouse and as a key stakeholder in shaping African football policy and development. Critics have occasionally raised concerns about disproportionate influence, but Lekjaa firmly rejected such narratives, framing Morocco’s efforts as collaborative rather than competitive.

He emphasised a philosophy centred on collective progress, arguing that African football should not remain stagnant while other regions continue to advance rapidly.

Instead, he called for unity and shared ambition among member associations to strengthen the continent’s competitiveness on the global stage.

Lekjaa’s remarks reinforce Morocco’s positioning as a major driver in African football reform, particularly as the country continues to invest heavily in infrastructure, youth development, and international hosting opportunities.