Motsepe hails Morocco’s football impact as CAF sets sights on successful 2027 AFCON

CAF President Patrice Motsepe has paid glowing tribute to Morocco’s growing influence in global football, declaring that “Morocco deserves respect” during remarks at the Africa Forward summit held in Nairobi.

Addressing delegates at the high-level gathering, Motsepe highlighted the extraordinary reach and economic impact of recent African football milestones, particularly tournaments hosted in Morocco.

He pointed to staggering figures that underline the continent’s rising global profile in the sport.

According to data shared at the summit, the competition attracted approximately 2.5 billion television viewers worldwide, generated 6.2 billion digital interactions, and reached audiences in 118 countries.

The tournament also delivered a significant economic boost, contributing an estimated $2 billion to the Moroccan economy.

Motsepe praised these achievements as evidence of Africa’s growing capacity to stage world-class sporting events, crediting Morocco for setting new benchmarks in organisation, infrastructure, and global engagement.

He also reflected on the historic run of Morocco national football team at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where the Atlas Lions became the first African side to reach the semi-finals.

Motsepe said the achievement brought pride to the entire continent and reshaped global perceptions of African football.

Looking ahead, the CAF president expressed confidence in the next Africa Cup of Nations, assuring stakeholders that preparations are on course for a successful 2027 edition to be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

He emphasised that the tournament would further strengthen Africa’s position on the global football stage.