The establishment of the FIFA Africa office in Morocco places the country at the forefront of defining the future of football on the continent.
Morocco has been officially selected to host the headquarters of the FIFA Africa Bureau, marking the birth of a new era for the development of African football.
Signed in Marrakech at the end of the CAF Awards 2024 ceremony – an ideal setting to celebrate this significant step forward in football governance in Africa – the agreement reflects Morocco’s growing importance as a hub for sports governance and infrastructure in Africa.
The signing ceremony brought together key stakeholders, including Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Fouzi Lekjaa, President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF).
This partnership is part of FIFA’s strategic vision to expand its presence across Africa, building on Morocco’s strong commitment to advancing football regionally and globally.
The creation of the Africa Office aims to streamline FIFA’s projects and strengthen support for football initiatives across the continent, with the Moroccan government and the FRMF committing to provide full
administrative and logistical support to ensure its smooth operation.
Mr. Akhannouch described the agreements as “an important milestone that reaffirms Morocco’s credibility with global sporting institutions. This step comes after Morocco’s historic co-hosting of the 2030 World Cup, alongside Spain and Portugal. It is a clear recognition of our availability and capacity to support international football initiatives,” he said.
Infantino also welcomed the agreement, calling it transformational for African football. “This office represents more than an administrative centre; it is a commitment to advance football across the continent.
Morocco’s dedication to the sport has set a benchmark for others,” the FIFA President said.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe also praised Morocco’s contributions to African football, both on and off the pitch. “Morocco’s investments and leadership continue to inspire progress across the continent. The FIFA Africa Bureau will undoubtedly strengthen the African football ecosystem,” he said.
Motsepe also echoed these sentiments during his speech at the CAF Awards. “Today, we celebrate the best of Africa: its players, its achievements and its immense progress in football,” he said.
“Everyone’s presence here is proof that African football is now more recognized and respected on the international stage.”
At the awards ceremony, Moroccans played a key role in their country’s success, with Bouchra Karboubi named the best female referee of the year, Doha El Madani honored as the best young player, Lamia Boumehdi
recognized as the best female coach, among others.
The creation of the FIFA Africa Office places Morocco at the forefront of shaping the future of football on the continent. Equipped with specialized infrastructure and expertise, the office will foster sustainable development, supporting federations, projects and emerging talent across Africa.
MK/Sf/te/fss/gik/APA