Following the successful hosting of the 35th African Cup of Nations (AFCON) by Morocco, His Majesty King Mohammed VI says his country is proud to have contributed to the prominence of Africa and its football.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates conveyed the king’s message in a statement on Thursday, adding that “Morocco remains proud to have offered, on its soil, a month of popular joy and sporting emotion.”
“Following the 35th African Cup of Nations, hosted with great enthusiasm by the Kingdom of Morocco from December 21st, 2025 to January 18th, 2026, His Majesty the King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, wishes to convey His gratitude to all members of the Nation, who have contributed admirably to the full success of this wonderful event.
“His Majesty the King particularly wishes to congratulate all citizens, across various cities of the Kingdom, for the efforts deployed, and to thank each and every one for their valuable contribution to this historic success, which has been acknowledged and acclaimed worldwide.
“The Sovereign also addresses His congratulations to millions of Moroccan women, men and children who, in an exemplary manner and each in their own way, tirelessly supported their national team, currently ranked 8th best national team in the world.
“Such remarkable result, fruit of a high-level proactive sports and infrastructure policy, as well as the patriotic choice made by talented youth of Moroccan Expatriates to opt for the national team’s jersey and to defend its colors with pride and gusto,” the ministry said.
The statement added that this edition of the continental competition will stand as a milestone, as, beyond its sporting outcomes, it made for a gauge for the Kingdom’s major leap on the path to development and progress, fruit of a long-term vision and a unique and efficient Moroccan model which puts the citizen at the heart of all ambition.
While acknowledging the unfortunate events of the final minutes of the match between the national teams of Morocco and Senegal, the statement noted that although the incidence was regrettable, “it remains nonetheless that, once passions have subsided, inter-African fraternity will naturally prevail, for this Moroccan success is also an African success.”
“Furthermore, in view of the denigration and attempts at discrediting sustained, His Majesty the King, may God assist Him, remains convinced that hostile schemes will never reach their aims, and that Moroccan people know to balance matters and not to be drawn into resentment and discord.
“Nothing will alter the closeness that was fostered over centuries between our African people, nor the fruitful cooperation built hand in hand with different countries of the Continent, bolstered by ever ambitious partnerships.
“The Kingdom of Morocco is and shall remain a great African country, faithful to the spirit of brotherhood, solidarity and an always nurtured mutual respect towards its continent.”
It added that “In accordance with the enlightened vision of the Sovereign, Morocco will further its resolute and steadfast commitment in favor of a united and prosperous Africa, notably through mutual exchange of experiences, expertise and knowledge.”