RABAT – Following the successful conclusion of the 35th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), hosted by the Kingdom of Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, His Majesty King Mohammed VI has expressed His deep gratitude to all components of the Nation whose collective efforts ensured the outstanding success of this major continental event.
In a statement, His Majesty particularly commended Moroccan citizens across the Kingdom’s cities for their exemplary mobilization and unwavering commitment, which contributed decisively to the flawless organization of the tournament. The Sovereign extended His sincere thanks to all those involved in this historic achievement, widely acknowledged and acclaimed at both continental and international levels.
His Majesty also conveyed His warm congratulations to the millions of Moroccan women, men, and children who, in an exemplary display of patriotism, tirelessly supported the national football team. Currently ranked eighth among the world’s best national teams, this remarkable achievement, the King noted, is the result of a proactive, high-level sports and infrastructure policy, as well as the patriotic choice of talented Moroccan youth from the diaspora to proudly wear and defend the national colors.
The Sovereign underscored that this edition of the Africa Cup of Nations will remain a landmark event, not only for its sporting outcomes, but also as a testament to Morocco’s significant strides on the path of development and progress. These advances, He emphasized, are the fruit of a long-term vision and a distinctive, effective Moroccan development model that places the citizen at the heart of national ambition.
Addressing the regrettable incidents that occurred during the final moments of the match between the national teams of Morocco and Senegal, His Majesty expressed deep regret over the unfortunate behavior witnessed. Nevertheless, He affirmed that once emotions subside, the spirit of inter-African fraternity will naturally prevail, stressing that Morocco’s success is also an African success. The Kingdom, He noted, remains proud to have offered Africa a month of popular celebration and sporting emotion, and to have contributed to the enhanced visibility and prestige of African football.
In this context, His Majesty reaffirmed His firm conviction that attempts at denigration and discrediting will never achieve their objectives. The King emphasized that the Moroccan people possess the wisdom and discernment to rise above resentment and discord, and that nothing can undermine the deep bonds forged over centuries between African peoples, nor the fruitful cooperation developed hand in hand with countries across the Continent through ambitious partnerships.
His Majesty reiterated that the Kingdom of Morocco is, and will remain, a great African nation, steadfastly committed to the values of brotherhood, solidarity, and mutual respect toward its Continent. In line with the Sovereign’s enlightened Vision, Morocco will continue to strengthen its unwavering commitment to a united, prosperous Africa, notably through the sharing of experiences, expertise, and knowledge.
It is worth noting that Morocco’s relations with African countries extend far beyond the realm of football. These ties are close, rooted in a shared destiny, and marked by solidarity. They are strategic in nature, yet profoundly human. Senegal and Morocco, in particular, have long enjoyed relations of friendship and cooperation across several sectors, including tourism, energy, education, and infrastructure, and are further bound by strong and enduring religious ties.
BY: The Times Union
