The Royal Cabinet has issued the following statement:
“Following the 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, which the Kingdom of Morocco proudly and enthusiastically hosted from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026, His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, wishes to express His heartfelt thanks to all the components of the Nation that contributed admirably to the complete success of this magnificent event.
His Majesty the King extends His special congratulations to all citizens, across the various cities of the Kingdom, for the efforts they made, and thanks each and every one of them for their outstanding contribution to this historic success, acknowledged and praised worldwide.
The Sovereign also conveys His commendation to the millions of Moroccan women, men, and children who, in their own ways and always with exemplary spirit, never ceased to support their national team, now ranked as the eighth-best national selection in the world. This remarkable achievement is notably the result of a proactive, high-level sports and infrastructure policy, as well as the patriotic choice made by the talented children of Moroccans living abroad to wear the national team jersey and defend its colors with pride and distinction.
This edition of the continental competition will stand as a milestone, for beyond its excellent sporting results, it has made it possible to measure the qualitative leap achieved by the Kingdom on the path of development and progress—an outcome of a long-term vision and a distinctive, high-performing Moroccan model that places the citizen at the heart of all ambitions.
Furthermore, even if this great continental football celebration hosted by the Kingdom appears to have been regrettably marred by the unfortunate episode that occurred in the final minutes of the match between the national teams of Morocco and Senegal, during which regrettable incidents and deeply deplorable actions took place, it remains nonetheless true that once passions subside, inter-African fraternity will naturally prevail. This Moroccan success is also an African success. Morocco remains proud to have offered, on its soil, a full month of popular joy and sporting emotion, and to have contributed to the radiance of Africa and its football.
Moreover, in the face of disparagement and certain attempts at discrediting, His Majesty the King, may God assist Him, remains convinced that hostile designs will never achieve their aims, that the Moroccan people know how to exercise discernment, and that they will not allow themselves to be drawn into resentment or discord. Nothing can undermine the closeness forged over centuries between our African peoples, nor the fruitful cooperation built with the countries of the Continent and strengthened through ever more ambitious partnerships.
The Kingdom of Morocco is and will remain a great African nation, faithful to the spirit of fraternity, solidarity, and respect that it has always upheld toward its Continent. In line with the enlightened Vision of the Sovereign, Morocco will continue its determined and steadfast commitment to a united and prosperous Africa, notably through the mutual sharing of its experiences, expertise, and know-how.”
