In a significant move to deepen its roots in Africa, the world football governing body, FIFA, has officially opened a major Africa office in Rabat, the capital city of Morocco. This development marks a strategic milestone in FIFA’s global expansion and further reinforces Morocco’s growing influence as the epicenter of African football operations.
The state-of-the-art office, located within the prestigious Mohammed VI Football Complex, was unveiled in a high-profile ceremony attended by key football and government stakeholders. It is designed to serve as a central base for FIFA’s activities on the continent, supporting African football federations in the execution of developmental programs, policy implementation, and broader capacity building.
This move follows the Host Agreement signed last December in Marrakech between FIFA, the Kingdom of Morocco, and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), solidifying Morocco’s long-term partnership with the global football body.
Speaking at the launch, FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the day as historic, stating,
“Today is certainly a wonderful day, a special day, a glorious day, a joyful day. We will write, in gold letters, the wonderful history of FIFA, of football in Africa, of football in Morocco, of football in the world. It’s an incredible and beautiful complex, and I want to start by thanking Morocco, and His Majesty King Mohammed VI, for making this possible.”
Infantino praised Morocco for its progressive vision and continued investment in football, calling the new office “a witness to a country and a continent projected into the future.”
Rabat now joins an exclusive list of global cities — Paris, Miami, and Jakarta — that host official FIFA offices, signaling the importance of Africa in FIFA’s long-term plans. The Rabat office will work in coordination with existing regional centers in Brazzaville, Dakar, Johannesburg, and Kigali, providing comprehensive oversight and assistance to the 54 African member associations.
The launch event was graced by several dignitaries, including FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström, CAF President Patrice Motsepe, CAF General Secretary Veron Mosengo-Omba, FRMF President Fouzi Lekjaa, and top Moroccan government officials.
Morocco’s emergence as a football powerhouse has been increasingly evident in recent years. From historic performances at the 2022 FIFA World Cup to its exceptional infrastructure and hosting capabilities, the North African nation has positioned itself as a reliable partner for global football events.
Notably, Morocco is set to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Portugal and Spain, becoming only the second African nation to host the prestigious tournament after South Africa in 2010.
The opening of FIFA’s Rabat office is more than a symbolic gesture—it is a strategic investment in the future of African football. It underscores FIFA’s commitment to grassroots development, professional governance, and infrastructural growth across the continent, with Morocco proudly leading the charge.
For more updates on FIFA developments, African football growth, and Morocco’s journey to the 2030 World Cup, stay tuned.
