RABAT – FIFA President Gianni Infantino has officially opened the organization’s new Africa office in Rabat, Morocco, marking a major step in the continent’s growing influence in global football.
Speaking at the launch ceremony held at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, Infantino praised the facility as “an incredible and magnificent center” and called the opening “a day of celebration and joy” that would go down in history for African football. “This is not just a FIFA Africa office,” Infantino said. “It will serve as a global hub, a place where the future of football is shaped not just for Africa, but for the entire world.”
The event took place alongside Morocco’s Throne Day celebrations. Infantino acknowledged King Mohammed VI’s continued support for sports development, calling the monarch’s commitment “unique” and essential to the continent’s progress in football.
Located within the state-of-the-art Mohammed VI Football Complex, the FIFA Africa office is designed to support technical, strategic, and administrative activities across the continent. The complex itself has become a key training and development center, especially after Morocco’s historic run to the 2022 World Cup semi-finals.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe echoed Infantino’s praise, calling Morocco the ideal location for FIFA’s regional headquarters. “No better place could have been chosen,” he said, thanking King Mohammed VI for his sustained support of African football.
Motsepe also highlighted Africa’s improved showing at the last World Cup and expressed confidence that African teams would continue to rise on the world stage. “We are entering a golden era for African football,” he stated.
Moroccan Football Federation President Fouzi Lekjaa emphasized that the new office reflects a broader plan to position Morocco as a bridge for international talent and a center for football innovation. “This complex is the result of a clear national strategy aimed at developing our youth through sport,” he said.
Lekjaa added that Morocco remains committed to inclusivity and cultural exchange. “We welcome players and coaches from across the world. Morocco is a land of meeting and opportunity.”
FIFA signed the headquarters agreement with the Moroccan government and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation last December in Marrakech during the 2024 CAF Awards.
The new FIFA office in Rabat comes as Morocco prepares to host several major international tournaments, including the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, five future editions of the U-17 Women’s World Cup, and the 2030 FIFA World Cup set to be co-hosted with Spain and Portugal.
As Infantino concluded his remarks, he looked ahead to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Nigeria, which was set to take place in Rabat later that evening. “It will be a beautiful celebration of the passion, skill, and unity that football brings to this continent,” he said.
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