Badreddine Idrissi, President of the Moroccan Association of Sports Journalism, emphasized the vital role of sports media in guiding fans and enhancing the culture of cheering. He warned against the rising discourse of incitement and violence propagated by certain “interlopers” through various platforms, particularly social media.
In his remarks during the regional forum on sports encouragement held on Tuesday morning in Rabat, Idrissi affirmed that the media is a key partner in the successful efforts to enhance the national sports scene, especially with Morocco preparing to host major continental and international sporting events. In this context, he highlighted the importance of media fulfilling its informative role objectively and honestly, steering clear of sensationalism and fabricated news that inflame public sentiments and sow discord.
The speaker noted that one of the primary responsibilities of the media today is to build a relationship based on trust and reliability with the sports audience, addressing rumors and emotional opinions that stir hatred and promote violence. He also stressed the need for professionalism and neutrality, advocating for the rejection of bias that undermines efforts to create a healthy sports environment.
Idrissi called for professional media to serve as a stronghold against the inciting and extremist content prevalent on social media, which tarnishes the sport and its noble spirit. He urged the establishment of a media culture in sports based on professionalism and responsibility that promotes values of coexistence and mutual respect among different fan groups.
He also highlighted the importance of sports media reflecting the concerns and aspirations of Moroccan fans, endorsing values of civilized cheering without glossing over or feeding negative phenomena. He explained that sports media content still exhibits disparities in treatment, with some striving to enhance the positive aspects of encouragement while others perpetuate negative stereotypes.
Idrissi pointed out that media, with its vast and rapid tools of influence, bears a significant responsibility in preserving the image of Moroccan sports, representing a facade that reflects the country’s uniqueness and creative heritage. He cited the creativity of Moroccan fans that has amazed the world in recent decades, making Moroccan cheering a distinctive global icon.
He concluded by asserting that when sports media exhibits professionalism and credibility, it not only enlightens the path for fans but also contributes to crafting a respectable national sports scene capable of engaging civilly with global changes, representing Morocco admirably on international stages.
