Ultras Boycott National League Matches to Protest Against Violence
Several Moroccan fan groups have announced a boycott of this weekend’s National League matches, starting with tomorrow’s two significant games: the first between Raja Casablanca and Maghreb Fez at the Mohammed V Sports Complex, and the second between Kawkab Marrakech and Wydad Casablanca at the Cherifien Stadium in Meknes.
In a statement released through their official platforms, the “Eagles” and “Green Boys,” supporters of Raja Casablanca, “Fatal Tigers,” supporters of Maghreb Fez, and “Redman,” supporters of Kawkab Marrakech, declared their intention to abstain from the matches due to the current situation in Moroccan cities. They expressed concerns over their names being exploited amid the rising incidences of violence and vandalism in Morocco. They reaffirmed their complete rejection of all forms of violence, despite advocating for improvements in education and health services—issues that resonate with the majority of Moroccans, not just peaceful protesters.
A joint statement from the Raja and Masoui groups called on Moroccan youth to exercise restraint and avoid getting swept into any acts of violence that could lead to serious consequences. They emphasized their identity as an integral part of the national fabric and asserted that what affects the nation impacts them as “ultras.”
Various ultras had previously voiced their concerns from the stands regarding the shortcomings in numerous sectors and urged development through investment in human capital, focusing on education and health as the pillars of any society. They stressed the importance of respecting the right to express legitimate demands and ensuring responsible channels for listening and engaging with these concerns.
The fan groups noted that the rising tension in Moroccan streets since last Saturday led them to consider the decision to boycott matches, aiming to prevent their names and youth from being implicated in events that disrupt Morocco’s stability. They acknowledged that ongoing policies of marginalization and exclusion, alongside the declining quality of public services in health and education, contributed to this unrest, which they support peacefully. However, they condemned all forms of violence as depicted in social media through videos and images showing acts of vandalism and theft of public property, which they categorically reject.
