Rabat, Morocco – His Majesty King Mohammed VI has expressed his sincere thanks and congratulations to the Moroccan people following the successful hosting of the 35th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025), held in the Kingdom from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.
In a statement, the Sovereign commended the strong mobilization of citizens across Morocco’s cities, whose collective efforts contributed to the tournament’s smooth organization and international acclaim. He also praised the millions of Moroccans for their exemplary support of the national team, noting that its current eighth-place world ranking reflects the Kingdom’s proactive sports policy and the patriotic commitment of talented players from the Moroccan diaspora.
The King underscored that AFCON 2025 represents a major milestone, illustrating Morocco’s significant development progress under a long-term, citizen-focused model.
Referring to incidents that occurred in the final moments of the match against Senegal, the statement described them as regrettable, while stressing confidence in the strength of inter-African fraternity. It emphasized that the tournament’s success was a collective African achievement and affirmed Morocco’s pride in contributing to a month-long celebration that enhanced the continent’s football standing.
Despite attempts to undermine this achievement, King Mohammed VI reaffirmed the resilience of the Moroccan people and the Kingdom’s deep-rooted historical ties and cooperation with African nations. Morocco, he said, remains firmly committed to its African identity and to the values of fraternity, solidarity and mutual respect.
The statement concluded by reaffirming Morocco’s determination, in line with the Royal Vision, to continue working for a united and prosperous Africa through strengthened cooperation and the exchange of experience and expertise.
