Morocco’s tourism boom continues as the Kingdom targets new records
Tourism in Morocco is entering a new phase of sustained growth, confirming its status as Africa’s leading travel destination and a key driver of the national economy. After a record-breaking 2025, early indicators for 2026 suggest that the sector is not only maintaining momentum but accelerating further.
According to recent data, Morocco welcomed nearly 19.8 million tourists in 2025, marking a historic high and a 14% increase compared to the previous year. Tourism revenues also reached record levels, exceeding 124 to 138 billion dirhams, highlighting the sector’s growing contribution to economic growth and foreign exchange earnings.
This strong performance has already allowed the country to surpass several targets set in its national tourism roadmap ahead of schedule. The sector now supports nearly 894,000 direct jobs, reinforcing its central role in employment and development.
Strong Start to 2026
The upward trend has continued into 2026. In the first quarter alone, Morocco recorded 4.3 million tourist arrivals, representing a 7% increase year-on-year, with a particularly strong surge of 18% in March.
This growth comes despite global uncertainties affecting travel costs and air traffic, underlining the resilience and attractiveness of the Moroccan destination. Authorities attribute this performance to improved air connectivity, diversified tourist markets, and an expanded tourism offering across the country.
Strategic Ambitions and Investments
Looking ahead, Morocco has set ambitious targets. The country aims to attract 26 million visitors by 2030, a goal closely tied to its role as a co-host of the FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal.
To support this ambition, major investments are underway, particularly in airport infrastructure and air transport capacity. Expansion projects in key cities such as Marrakech, Agadir, Tangier, and Fez are designed to handle a significant increase in passenger traffic in the coming years.
At the same time, Morocco continues to diversify its tourism offer, promoting new destinations and experiences beyond traditional hotspots. While cities like Marrakech remain highly attractive, authorities are increasingly focusing on sustainable tourism and regional development to spread economic benefits more evenly.
A Leading Destination in Africa
With nearly 20 million visitors and continuous growth, Morocco has consolidated its position as the most visited country in Africa. The sector now accounts for a significant share of GDP and remains a major source of employment and investment.
As global tourism rebounds and competition intensifies, Morocco’s strategy—combining infrastructure development, diversification, and international partnerships—appears to be paying off.
If current trends continue, the kingdom is well on track to not only meet but potentially exceed its long-term tourism ambitions, further strengthening its reputation as a top destination for travelers worldwide.
Morocco–Senegal Final: Reports highlight chaos and strengthen Morocco’s legal case
New details have emerged regarding the controversial Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal, reinforcing Morocco’s position in the ongoing dispute.
According to revelations from Le Monde, multiple official reports describe a chaotic situation during the match, including a 12-minute interruption that may have influenced key moments of the game.
The final’s general coordinator, Khaled Lemkecher, reportedly noted that several Senegalese players left the pitch and headed to the dressing room, leaving Sadio Mané alone on the field during the disruption.
In addition, a security report highlighted crowd violence and raised concerns over possible pressure on referees to avoid issuing red cards to Senegalese players.
These reports, prepared by officials from multiple African nations, are now central to Morocco’s legal approach. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation is seeking a clear application of the rules, arguing that the integrity of the competition must be upheld.
As the case progresses, these revelations could play a decisive role in the final outcome of the dispute.
Morocco is openly aiming for the top spot in the FIFA rankings
Speaking in the presence of Philippe Diallo, head of the French Football Federation, Lekjaa congratulated the French side before issuing a confident warning that Morocco will not take long to challenge for the same position. His remarks reflect growing belief within Moroccan football circles that reaching the summit is no longer out of reach.
Atlas Lions confirm historic rise in FIFA rankings
Morocco’s current position as the eighth-ranked nation in the world marks a historic milestone. No African team has ever reached such a level in the FIFA rankings, underlining the scale of progress achieved by the national team in recent years.
This rise has been fueled by a series of strong results, including a CAF decision awarding Morocco victory in the AFCON 2025 final, alongside a draw against Ecuador and a win over Paraguay. These performances have allowed the Atlas Lions to close the gap on traditional football powers and strengthen their credibility on the international stage.
Global football giants now within reach
With only a narrow points gap separating Morocco from the teams above them, the prospect of breaking into the top five is increasingly realistic. Nations such as the Netherlands, Brazil and Portugal are now within touching distance, while England and the current top trio of Argentina, Spain and France represent the final steps toward global leadership.
Within the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, the objective is clear. The focus is no longer just on maintaining a strong ranking but on continuing the upward trajectory until Morocco reaches the very top of world football.
A defining moment for African football
Morocco’s ambition carries significance beyond national pride. If the Atlas Lions succeed in reaching the number one spot, they would become the first African nation in history to achieve this feat, setting a new benchmark for the continent.
This vision aligns with broader long-term strategies aimed at strengthening Morocco’s position in global football, including initiatives linked to the Morocco 2030 Foundation. The message is clear Morocco is no longer chasing recognition but is now positioning itself among the world’s elite
Morocco’s Saibari and teammates apologize after “Like” controversy
Caught in the crossfire after “liking” photos of Senegalese players celebrating their on-field victory in the 2025 AFCON final—a title later awarded to Morocco by the Confederation of African Football (CAF)—Ismael Saibari has broken his silence on social media.
“I liked it without thinking,” Saibari apologizes to fans
After Morocco’s national team defeated Paraguay 2-1 on Tuesday night in Lens, the first match under coach Mohamed Ouahbi, the PSV attacker issued an apology via Instagram Story.
“To clarify everything that happened over the past few days, I accidentally ‘liked’ a photo on Instagram without paying attention. I understand the anger of some people, but this doesn’t take away from the love and dedication I have for Morocco. I have always proudly represented this country.”
Rumors suggest that the player, who was not called up for Morocco’s latest match, was sanctioned despite his internal apologies. Saibari admitted that insults were directed at his family, which he condemned, urging unity ahead of the 2026 World Cup (June 11–July 19).
“However, in moments of anger, families should not be insulted—they have nothing to do with this. Let’s focus on what really matters: the upcoming World Cup, and stay united to achieve our dream.”
“A mistake,” “a thoughtless like,” “not intentional”—Riad, Kechta, and Targhalline follow suit
Chadi Riad, another figure in the “likegate,” also issued a mea culpa. Like Saibari, he reaffirmed his deep attachment to Morocco and the national team.
“A mistake; I apologize and I understand the frustration of the Moroccan people. I’ve defended this flag since I was 14, so never doubt my love for this homeland. Dima Maghreb.”
Yassine Kechta, who was not selected for this squad, echoed the sentiment: “Sorry… I understand the disappointment this may have caused. A like without any second thought. Never any disrespect. Morocco forever.”
Midfielder Oussama Targhalline also stated in the mixed zone that it was unintentional.
FIFA Rankings april 2026 : Morocco shine in Top 10 as Atlas Lions strengthen global status
Despite a mixed set of results, the Atlas Lions once again demonstrated their resilience. A 1-1 draw against Ecuador was followed by a valuable 2-1 victory over Paraguay, allowing Morocco to keep their momentum at the highest level.
Crucially, the officially awarded win in the AFCON 2025 final has been factored into the rankings, reinforcing Morocco’s position among the top football nations globally.
See the full rankings here
Closing in on Europe’s elite
Morocco now sit just two points behind the Netherlands, highlighting their growing competitiveness against Europe’s top sides. This proximity underlines the remarkable progress made by the national team in recent years.
Their ability to consistently secure results, even in tightly contested matches, reflects a mature and well-structured squad capable of competing on all fronts.
Clear leaders in African football
On the continental stage, Morocco remain firmly established as Africa’s number one team, ahead of Senegal and Nigeria.
While Senegal dropped in the rankings despite recent wins, Morocco’s stability and consistency have allowed them to consolidate their leadership in African football.
Building momentum ahead of major challenges
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, Morocco’s position in the Top 10 sends a strong message. The Atlas Lions are not only maintaining their status but are also positioning themselves as serious contenders on the global stage.
Their steady climb and sustained performances reflect a team that has reached a new level of maturity, ready to take on the world’s best.
Morocco secure first win under Ouahbi with victory over Paraguay
After a 1-1 draw against Ecuador in his debut match last Friday in Madrid, Ouahbi saw his side make the difference early in the second half, thanks to a decisive five-minute spell inspired by the duo of Achraf Hakimi and Gessime Yassine.
The match turned immediately after the break. Yassine set up Hakimi on the right flank, whose cross found Bilal El Khannouss to open the scoring in the 48th minute. Just five minutes later, a nearly identical move saw Hakimi deliver another cross, this time converted by Neil El Aynaoui, who netted his second goal in as many matches.
The attacking combination proved highly effective, even if Yassine may still have to compete for a regular spot alongside Brahim Díaz on the flank.
Paraguay pulled one back late in the game through Caballero, who scored from close range in the 88th minute. However, it came too late to threaten Morocco’s control, as the Atlas Lions comfortably held on to secure the win.
The victory was celebrated in front of a lively crowd in Lens, where supporters from the Moroccan diaspora gathered in large numbers. The evening also carried symbolic value, as fans paid tribute to former coach Walid Regragui with a banner reading, “Thank you for everything Walid, welcome Ouahbi.”
With this first success, Morocco begin a new chapter under Ouahbi with growing confidence and momentum.
CAF: Patrice Motsepe highlights Morocco’s key role in African football competitions
During a press conference held in Cairo on March 29, 2026, Patrice Motsepe emphasized Morocco’s crucial contribution to the organization and sustainability of African football competitions, particularly those considered less profitable.
The Executive Committee of the Confédération africaine de football addressed several major issues, including refereeing reforms, the controversy surrounding the AFCON 2025 final between Morocco and Senegal, and the decision by the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Amid these discussions, Patrice Motsepe took the opportunity to underline the importance of certain nations in sustaining African competitions.
Morocco, a cornerstone in hosting competitions
The CAF president highlighted the consistent commitment of Morocco, which often steps forward to host tournaments—even those with limited financial returns: “We launch calls for bids, and any member association can apply. But for some of the most challenging and least profitable competitions, such as futsal or the Women’s AFCON, we lose money. In many cases, Morocco is the only country that submits a bid.”
According to Motsepe, tournaments like futsal competitions and the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations are vital for the development of football across the continent, yet they struggle to attract hosts due to their low profitability. This creates a structural challenge for CAF in maintaining a balanced and sustainable competition calendar.
Balancing fairness and economic reality
Motsepe also stressed the importance of giving all African regions the opportunity to host tournaments. However, he acknowledged the practical necessity of relying on countries willing and able to organize these events: “We must give every zone the opportunity to host competitions, but I also have to ensure that these competitions continue to exist.”
This statement highlights a broader challenge facing CAF: balancing development, financial sustainability, and equitable distribution of competitions across the continent. In this context, Morocco’s role appears increasingly strategic in ensuring the continuity of key African football events.
AFCON 1976: Guinea FA dismisses rumors, confirms Morocco’s historic title was legitimate
Guinea FA issues strong denial
In response, the Fédération guinéenne de football (FGF) released an official statement firmly rejecting these allegations. The federation confirmed that it has not initiated any legal action before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) or CAF regarding AFCON 1976, describing the circulating claims as “inaccurate and unfounded.”
Match facts contradict the rumors
To clarify the situation, the Guinean FA revisited the details of the March 14, 1976 match played in Addis Ababa. The game ended in a 1-1 draw, with Chérif Souleymane opening the scoring before Ahmed Makrouh, also known as “Baba,” equalized late in the match. No incidents were reported during or after the game, directly contradicting the viral narrative.
A different competition format in 1976
The controversy also highlights a common misunderstanding of the tournament format at the time. Unlike today’s final-based system, AFCON 1976 concluded with a final group stage. Morocco finished top of that group, ahead of Guinea, securing the title in full compliance with the rules.
Statement from the Guinean Football Federation
The Guinean Football Federation (FGF) wishes to inform the national and international public that it has not initiated any proceedings before either the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) or the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in connection with the 1976 Africa Cup of Nations.
In recent days, information circulated across various platforms, particularly on social media, has incorrectly suggested that Guinea has taken steps to challenge the result of the match between the Syli National and Morocco during that tournament.
The Guinean Football Federation would like to clarify, in a spirit of responsibility and calm, that these claims are inaccurate and have no official basis.
Regarding the historical facts, the FGF recalls that the Guinea–Morocco match was played on March 14, 1976, in Addis Ababa, under the officiating of Zambian referee Nyirenda Chayu.
The match ended in a 1–1 draw, with Guinea opening the scoring in the 33rd minute through Chérif Souleymane, before Morocco equalized in the 86th minute through Ahmed Makrouh, known as “Baba”.
The Federation also wishes to recall, for historical clarification, that in accordance with the regulations in force at the time, the competition did not include a traditional final.
After an initial group stage, the qualified teams competed in a final round-robin group, with the standings directly determining the winner.
In this context, Morocco finished at the top of this final group and was duly crowned African champion, with Guinea finishing in second place.
The Guinean Football Federation reaffirms its commitment to respecting historical facts and sporting regulations.
It calls, with composure, on the media and all stakeholders to prioritize verified information and to avoid any interpretation likely to create confusion.
The FGF remains fully committed to promoting the values of fair play, mutual respect, and unity within African football.
AFCON 2025 : CAS verdict looms as legal expert backs Morocco’s title
The Morocco’s AFCON 2025 triumph remains a major talking point across African football. Awarded by the Confederation of African Football at the expense of Senegal, the title is now under scrutiny, with a final decision expected from the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
As the legal battle unfolds, confidence appears to be growing on the Moroccan side. Speaking to Onze Mondial, Paris-based lawyer Romain Bizzini suggested that the odds favor Morocco retaining the title.
“I would say there is a 75% chance that CAF’s decision will be upheld and that Morocco will remain champions (…) The strict application of the regulations works in favor of confirming the forfeit,” he explained.
This legal perspective reinforces the idea that the governing body’s decision was grounded in regulatory compliance. Unless procedural flaws or new evidence emerge, CAS is likely to validate CAF’s ruling.
For Morocco, this would represent not only a legal victory but also the confirmation of a historic continental achievement. As the football world awaits the final verdict, Moroccan supporters remain cautiously optimistic that the title will stand.
Amine Birouk defends Morocco’s victory at the AFCON 2025, the text takes precedence
Birouk’s intervention focused on a key principle: in modern football, regulations prevail over on-field results. While the Sénégal initially won the match, he argued that leaving the pitch to protest a VAR decision fundamentally altered the legal status of the game.
Referring to Articles 82 and 84 of CAF regulations, Birouk explained that such actions are considered a refusal to play, automatically resulting in a forfeit. In this framework, the original score becomes legally irrelevant.
Beyond the technical argument, Birouk positioned Morocco as an actor committed to institutional integrity. Rather than engaging in emotional reactions, he emphasized respect for the rulebook and judicial processes, reinforcing the credibility of the Fédération royale marocaine de football.
He also addressed criticism regarding the timing of the decision, explaining that CAF’s disciplinary bodies needed time to conduct a thorough investigation. According to him, the delay reflects due process rather than external influence.
Looking ahead, Birouk’s message clearly anticipates a potential appeal before the Tribunal arbitral du sport. His argument is consistent: confirming Senegal’s title despite the rule breach would set a dangerous precedent for international football.
By shifting the discussion from emotion to legality, Birouk framed the controversy as a broader issue of governance and respect for the rules — a position that strongly supports Morocco’s claim to the title.
