Football as an instrument of Moroccan politics

Morocco is using football strategically as a tool of domestic and foreign policy, with the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 and the co-hosted FIFA World Cup 2030 (with Spain and Portugal) serving as major “showcases” on the global stage. Under the reign of King Mohammed VI, Morocco’s external strategy has shifted toward a multidimensional approach that combines political messaging with cultural symbolism, with a strong focus on Africa.

Hosting AFCON 2025 is a milestone and a test run for the logistical, infrastructural, and diplomatic demands of 2030. The World Cup bid is also signaling Morocco’s ambition to act as a bridge between Africa and Europe through cooperation, coordinated communication, and broader projects beyond sport. A central pillar is infrastructure-led modernization: plans include the “Grand Stade de Casablanca”, expanded high-speed railways, new highways, and digital platforms for ticketing, security, and tourism purposes. These are seen as catalysts for longer-term reforms and investment, supported by legal changes such as an updated investment charter and public–private partnership rules.

At the same time, there are significant risks: vulnerability to geopolitical shocks, dependence on external partners, and domestic legitimacy challenges if prestige spending deepens social tensions – especially amid youth protests, unemployment, inequality, and rising living costs.

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