New FIFA Africa hub opens in Rabat near Mohammed VI Complex
FIFA Sets Up African Headquarters in Rabat, Cementing Morocco's Continental Sports Leadership
Rabat Hosts Inauguration Ceremony, Emphasizing Commitment to African Football Development
A new era for African football dawned Saturday as FIFA inaugurated its regional Africa office in Rabat, marking a significant step in the development of the sport across the continent. The high-level ceremony saw prominent figures like FIFA President Gianni Infantino, CAF President Patrice Motsepe, and Moroccan Football Federation Chief Fouzi Lekjaa alongside senior African and international sports officials.
This landmark establishment follows a tripartite agreement signed in Marrakech on December 16, 2024, between FIFA, the Moroccan government, and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF). The agreement outlines a strategic plan to bolster African football through institutional support, technical guidance, and training development programs.
Strategically located near the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Salé, adjacent to the FRMF headquarters, this new office is the first of its kind at this scale on the African continent. It underscores Morocco's growing stature as a trusted strategic partner in continental sports development.
Morocco: A Hub for African Football Talent
Speaking at the ceremony, Lekjaa highlighted that the facility resides within a complex personally initiated by King Mohammed VI as part of a 26-year national football vision positioning Morocco as a central hub for African talent, cooperation, and youth training. He commended Infantino and Motsepe for their ongoing support, stating that the opening “symbolizes an ongoing commitment to African football” and provides a platform for deeper collaboration across all levels of the game.
"Morocco was and will remain your second home. We will continue working together toward inclusive development, including football for both boys and girls, in line with the values of openness and tolerance upheld by the King,” Lekjaa said.
A Boost for Morocco's 2030 World Cup Bid
The inauguration further solidifies Morocco’s preparations to co-host the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal.