As Morocco gears up to host the 2025 AFCON, a key official from the Royal Moroccan Football Federation [FRMF] has stressed that the country’s readiness stems from a long-term national development strategy, not an emergency rush to prepare for a major sporting event.
Omar Khyari, an advisor to FRMF president Fouzi Lekjaa, confirmed that preparations for AFCON 2025 are proceeding smoothly, but emphasised that the tournament should not be viewed merely as a “test” for the co-hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Khyari stated that Morocco’s comprehensive infrastructure improvements are anchored in the “long-term vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI.”
“The Kingdom has been investing in modern stadiums and urban infrastructure for many years, not because of the AFCON, but as part of a broader national development strategy,” Khyari said. “The country did not wait for AFCON nor the World Cup to transform itself.”
He pointed to several long-standing national achievements as evidence of this vision-driven development. Morocco boasts Africa’s only high-speed train, the Al Boraq, which connects major cities. Ahead of the tournament, they have opened the doors of Africa’s largest hospital, recently inaugurated in Rabat. There are also significant investments in airports, highways, and tourism facilities.
“These achievements demonstrate that Morocco’s readiness is not event-driven but vision-driven,” he added. “AFCON is therefore part of a broader continuum, not a starting point.”
AFCON STADIUMS AND LOGISTICS READY FOR KICK OFF
According to Khyari, all nine host venues across the six selected cities are ready. He said pitch quality has reportedly been validated through independent audits aligned with CAF and FIFA requirements.
Safety and Accessibility: Safety systems, crowd flow, and stadium accessibility have been reviewed with national authorities to ensure a secure and comfortable environment for all attendees.
Khyari highlighted Morocco’s extensive experience hosting major international competitions, which has created a “mature, professional ecosystem” with skilled organisational teams and strong coordination between authorities.
A crucial element of Morocco’s confidence in hosting is its robust transportation network.
“Mobility is one of Morocco’s strongest assets. The Kingdom has built, over many years, a transport network unmatched on the continent,” Khyari noted, emphasising the extensive network of modern highways, regional airport hubs, and the high-speed rail line.
For AFCON 2025, the FRMF is closely collaborating with national transport bodies to reinforce the system during peak periods by increasing train frequencies, expanding domestic flights, and implementing special match-day mobility operations.
Khyari conveyed a message of continental unity and hospitality ahead of the much-anticipated tournament. “Morocco is deeply honoured to host AFCON 2025, a competition that embodies African unity, talent, and pride.”
“In Morocco, you are at home. You will be welcomed with warmth, hospitality, and the genuine spirit of our country. AFCON 2025 will be a celebration of Africa, and Morocco is ready to host the continent as family.”
RELATED STORY: King Mohamed VI’s gift to Raja Casablanca has become the jewel of Africa