The Royal Palace has issued a statement in the wake of the 35th Africa Cup of Nations, hosted by Morocco from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026, celebrating the tournament’s success and its wider impact.
King Mohammed VI expressed deep thanks to all components of the nation who contributed to staging the event in a passionate atmosphere and helping it earn global recognition.
The King offered special congratulations to citizens across all Moroccan cities for their efforts and their individual contributions to what he called a historic achievement. He also praised the millions of Moroccans, at home and abroad, who supported the national team in exemplary fashion as it climbed to eighth place in the FIFA world rankings.
This sporting rise, the statement noted, reflects a deliberate, ambitious policy in sports and infrastructure, as well as the patriotic choice of gifted Moroccan players from the diaspora to proudly represent the national team. The tournament was described as a landmark in the history of African football, showcasing Morocco’s development gains through a distinctive national model that puts citizens at the heart of all ambitions.
The Royal Palace acknowledged that the final between Morocco and Senegal was marred by regrettable incidents in its closing minutes, but stressed that once emotions subside, African brotherhood will naturally prevail. The King underlined that Morocco’s success is also Africa’s success, with the country proud to have offered a month of popular joy and sporting passion that enhanced the continent’s image.
In response to smear campaigns and attempts to undermine Morocco’s credibility, the statement affirmed the King’s conviction that hostile schemes will fail and that Moroccans will not be dragged into resentment or division. It emphasized that nothing can damage the deep ties woven for centuries between African peoples, nor the growing, ambitious partnerships uniting their countries.
The communiqué concluded that Morocco has always been and will remain a major African nation loyal to the spirit of brotherhood, solidarity, and respect toward its continent.
Guided by the King’s far-sighted vision, the Kingdom pledges to continue its firm, ongoing commitment to a united, prosperous Africa by sharing its experience, expertise, and skills.
