L’ÉQUIPE: Morocco Has Made Football a Central Element in Its Public Policies Thanks to Massive Investments
The French newspaper "L’Équipe" confirmed that Morocco continues to solidify its position as an emerging sports nation by leveraging substantial resources to develop its infrastructure in preparation for hosting major events, notably the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The publication asserted that the kingdom has positioned football as a key focus in its public policies, driven by a clear political will and significant investments in infrastructure.
In a field report, the newspaper highlighted that the success of the Moroccan national team at the Qatar 2022 World Cup was not coincidental but the result of a comprehensive strategic vision that began years ago. The report noted the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Salé, inaugurated by King Mohammed VI in 2019, which is considered one of the best football centers in the world.
The complex cost around 60 million euros and spans 35 hectares adjacent to the Maâmora Forest. It houses 11 pitches, five hotels, a mosque, an advanced medical center, an Olympic swimming pool, along with a referee academy and rooms designated for events by the African Football Confederation and FIFA.
Fouzi Lekjaa, President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, emphasized that the establishment of this facility has allowed for the gathering of 25 teams in one location, which has significantly reduced accommodation and transportation costs. He added that the complex is managed as a shareholding company, enabling investment recoupment within six years.
The newspaper also visited the Ibn Batouta Stadium in Tangier, which is currently undergoing major renovations in preparation for upcoming events. The stadium’s capacity has been increased from 45,000 to over 62,000 spectators, with VIP boxes being developed to FIFA standards. A workforce of 1,200 has worked on a massive metal structure covering 55,000 square meters, making it the second largest facility of its kind after Maracanã Stadium in Brazil. Morocco has allocated over 340 million euros for this project.
The publication noted that these facilities will be tested in two major sporting events before the World Cup: the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations from July 5 to July 26, and the Men’s Africa Cup of Nations from December 21 to January 18. "L’Équipe" concluded by affirming that Morocco has ramped up its sports investments at an unprecedented pace in recent years, thereby laying the groundwork for an exceptional version of the World Cup in 2030.
