Morocco hailed as Africa’s most prepared country for major sports events

Spanish sports outlet Marca has spotlighted Morocco’s growing influence in global football, highlighting the kingdom’s dual evolution on the pitch and in sports administration.

The report frames Morocco as “the most prepared [country] on the continent,” pointing to the expansive ambitions of Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the Moroccan Football Federation.

Marca underscores Morocco’s persistent drive to host major events, with the 2030 World Cup as the centerpiece, aiming for the grand finale at the Grand Stade Hassan II in Casablanca.

For Marca, Morocco’s World Cup aspirations stand in stark contrast to Spain, a rival contender whose hosting credentials are shadowed by repeated reports of racism and Islamophobia.

Recent incidents in Spanish football, including the abuse faced by Real Madrid’s Vinicius and Barcelona’s Moroccan-Spanish star Lamine Yamal, have amplified concerns.

Yamal himself endured racist chants during a LaLiga clash against Atletico Madrid, only days after condemning Islamophobic chants at Spain’s friendly against Egypt, calling them the product of “ignorant and racist” behavior. These episodes, Marca argues, highlight Spain’s vulnerability in accommodating diverse global fanbases.

Beyond the World Cup, Morocco is actively expanding its portfolio of international sporting events. The kingdom is reportedly targeting the 2028 Futsal World Cup and the 2029 Club World Cup, reinforcing its image as a capable host.

On the continental front, Marca recalls Morocco’s bid to defend its Africa Cup of Nations title following the controversial 2023 final against Senegal.

CAF’s Appeal Board awarded Morocco the trophy after ruling Senegal had breached tournament regulations by abandoning the match. Senegal has since escalated the dispute to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, but Morocco remains confident the decision will be upheld.

Looking ahead, Marca suggests Morocco could capitalize on emerging opportunities within Africa. The 2027 Africa Cup, currently slated for the joint Kenya-Tanzania-Uganda bid, faces uncertainty, potentially opening the door for Morocco to host either that edition or the 2028 tournament.

With strategic planning, rising infrastructure standards, and a record of sporting achievements, Morocco is increasingly presenting itself as a model for leadership and ambition in international football.

The kingdom’s blend of administrative foresight and on-field performance positions it as a formidable contender in the global sports arena, challenging traditional European hosts in both credibility and capability.