The global football landscape is witnessing a notable development with the official opening of FIFA’s dedicated Africa office in Rabat, Morocco.
This event, attended by key figures in football governance, marks a strategic enhancement of FIFA’s operational presence on the continent.
The inauguration ceremony featured FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe, and Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) President Fouzi Lekjaa.
Infantino characterized the moment as “historic,” acknowledging the perceived positive impact of King Mohammed VI’s contributions to sports development in Morocco.
The Mohammed VI Football Complex, now housing the new office, was highlighted as a significant facility.
Infantino stated that the new office is intended to serve as a “global FIFA centre” with a broad impact on football worldwide.
This initiative is presented as a means to foster closer collaboration between FIFA and its 54 African member associations, potentially facilitating more direct support and resource allocation for development projects.
The timing of the office’s opening coincides with Morocco’s commitments to host several major football events, including the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for men, five consecutive editions of the U-17 Women’s World Cup, and a co-hosting role for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe expressed support for the choice of Rabat for the office, attributing it to King Mohammed VI’s efforts and reiterating his belief in African football’s future global prominence, citing recent performances such as Morocco’s semi-final appearance at the last World Cup.
Fouzi Lekjaa further elaborated that the Mohammed VI Football Complex, and consequently the new FIFA office, is an outcome of King Mohammed VI’s vision, aiming to support the development of Moroccan and African youth and establish Morocco as a hub for international talent.
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