Morocco’s Football Revolution: From Underdog to Global Superpower

The Football Newsletter #79

The Football Newsletter
December 27, 2024

Morocco’s transformation into a footballing superpower is a story of ambition, investment, and strategy. From underachieving on the international stage to co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup, the country’s rise has been extraordinary.

A Decade of Change

In 2010, Morocco’s football infrastructure was outdated and its teams underwhelming on the global stage. Fast forward to 2024, and Morocco stands as a beacon for African football. The pivotal shift began in 2014 with Fouzi Lekjaa’s appointment as president of the Royal Moroccan Football Association (FRMF). Under his leadership, the nation embarked on an aggressive program of investment in infrastructure, talent development, and diplomacy.

One symbol of this transformation is the King Mohammed VI Football Academy, a state-of-the-art $65 million facility that rivals the best in the world. Complementing this are five regional training centres, all designed to nurture local talent and attract international attention.

Hosting the World

Morocco has embraced football as a tool for global influence. It will co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, marking only the second time an African nation has hosted the tournament. A new 115,000-seat stadium, the Grand Stade Hassan II near Casablanca, is set to be the crown jewel of Morocco’s football revolution, with hopes it will host the World Cup final.

Before 2030, Morocco will host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and five editions of the Under-17 Women’s World Cup starting in 2025. These events will not only cement Morocco’s position as a football hub but also drive tourism and economic growth. The country’s Ministry of Tourism projects 26 million visitors annually by 2030, a significant leap from its 2024 figures.

Global Recognition

Morocco’s achievements on the pitch mirror its off-field ambitions. The national team’s historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup was a milestone, demonstrating that the country can compete with football’s elite. Players like Achraf Hakimi, a star of Paris Saint-Germain, became global icons, while the team’s resilience captivated fans worldwide.

Yet Morocco’s success is not limited to the men’s game. Leading clubs like Wydad Casablanca and Raja Casablanca have dominated African competitions, reflecting the strength of the domestic league.

A Balancing Act

Morocco’s rapid rise hasn’t been without challenges. The country’s investments in football have drawn criticism for overshadowing pressing social issues, such as rural poverty and the aftermath of the devastating 2023 earthquake in the Atlas Mountains. Nevertheless, Morocco’s leaders argue that football serves as a unifying force and an economic catalyst.

Diplomacy Through Sport

Morocco’s strategy extends beyond hosting tournaments. It has positioned itself as a key player in African football politics, hosting CAF events and securing influential roles for its officials, such as Lekjaa’s position on FIFA’s council. This soft power approach has strengthened ties with neighboring countries and global organizations.

Looking Ahead

Morocco’s ambitions don’t stop at hosting. The nation aims to retain its best players domestically, emulate Egypt’s success in developing local talent, and create a sustainable football ecosystem. With strategic investments and a clear vision, Morocco is poised to become a lasting force in global football.

As the world gears up for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, Morocco will not only showcase its footballing prowess but also its potential as a leader in sports, tourism, and diplomacy. It’s not just about hosting games—it’s about redefining what an African football superpower can achieve.

Morocco’s Football Revolution: From Underdog to Global Superpower

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