Morocco’s long-term vision can deliver World Cup success – Elfath

Moroccan-born American referee Ismail Elfath believes Morocco have the quality and long-term planning to compete for the FIFA World Cup title in 2030, insisting the Atlas Lions’ rise among the world’s elite has been years in the making.

Speaking to Saudi newspaper Arriyadiyah, Elfath said Morocco’s recent achievements on the international stage are the result of sustained investment in football rather than a short-lived success story.

‘Success is no surprise’

Elfath praised the Royal Moroccan Football Federation’s long-term strategy, pointing to the country’s investment in youth development and football infrastructure over the past decade.

“The results Morocco are achieving are no longer surprising,” Ellfath said. “They are the product of work that began more than ten years ago through a clear vision focused on investing in infrastructure and developing talent.”

He believes those foundations have transformed Morocco into one of the strongest national teams in world football.

Confidence ahead of 2030

With Morocco set to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, Elfath is convinced the Atlas Lions can be genuine contenders on home soil.

“I am confident Morocco will be a strong presence at the 2030 World Cup. Why not compete for the title?”

Morocco’s rise continues

Born in Casablanca before emigrating to the United States as a teenager, Elfath has remained closely connected to Moroccan football despite representing the United States as an international referee.

He has previously worked with the Royal Moroccan Football Federation on referee development programmes and is regarded as one of the most respected officials in world football.

His comments come after Morocco reached the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, extending the progress made in recent years following the Atlas Lions’ historic breakthrough on the global stage.

For Elfath, Morocco’s continued emergence as one of football’s leading nations reflects a carefully executed long-term project that has strengthened player development, coaching structures and football infrastructure, leaving the North African nation well placed to compete with the world’s best in the years ahead.