Sports Reporter
RABAT: Following the 35th African Cup of Nations, hosted with great enthusiasm by the Kingdom of Morocco from December 21, 2025 to January 18, 2026, His Majesty King Mohammed VI wishes to convey his sincere gratitude to all members of the Nation who contributed admirably to the full success of this major continental event.
His Majesty particularly congratulates all citizens, across the various cities of the Kingdom, for the efforts deployed, and thanks each and every one for their valuable contribution to this historic success, which has been acknowledged and acclaimed worldwide.
The Sovereign also extends his congratulations to the millions of Moroccan women, men and children who, in an exemplary manner and each in their own way, tirelessly supported the national football team, now ranked among the world’s top teams. This remarkable achievement is the result of a proactive, high-level sports and infrastructure policy, as well as the patriotic choice made by talented youth from the Moroccan diaspora to don the national jersey and defend its colors with pride and commitment.
This edition of the continental competition will remain a landmark event, as beyond its sporting outcomes, it served as a true gauge of the Kingdom’s significant progress on the path of development. This progress is the fruit of a long-term vision and an efficient Moroccan model that places the citizen at the heart of all ambition.
Moreover, while this major continental football celebration was regrettably marred by unfortunate incidents during the final minutes of the match between the national teams of Morocco and Senegal, it remains clear that, once passions subside, the spirit of inter-African fraternity will prevail. Morocco’s success is also Africa’s success. The Kingdom is proud to have hosted, on its soil, a month of popular joy and sporting emotion, and to have contributed to the promotion of Africa and its football.
In view of the sustained attempts at denigration and discrediting, His Majesty remains convinced that hostile schemes will never achieve their aims. The Moroccan people know how to exercise balance and wisdom, and will not be drawn into resentment or discord. Nothing will alter the close ties forged over centuries between African peoples, nor the fruitful cooperation built hand in hand with countries across the continent through ever more ambitious partnerships.
The Kingdom of Morocco is, and shall remain, a great African country, faithful to the values of brotherhood, solidarity and mutual respect toward its continent. In accordance with the enlightened vision of the Sovereign, Morocco will continue its resolute and steadfast commitment to a united and prosperous Africa through the exchange of experiences, expertise and knowledge.
It is further recalled that the Kingdom’s relations with African countries are strong and extend well beyond the passion for football. These relations are close, often shaped by a shared destiny and marked by solidarity. They are strategic as well as deeply human. Senegal and Morocco, in particular, enjoy longstanding friendly relations and cooperation in several sectors, including tourism, energy, education and infrastructure, and share very strong religious ties.
