HIBAPRESS – Rabat
Following the 35th edition of the African Cup of Nations, hosted by the Kingdom of Morocco in an atmosphere of enthusiasm from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God grant him victory, expresses his deep thanks to all the components of the nation who contributed wonderfully to the great success of this distinguished event.
His Majesty is keen, in particular, to congratulate all citizens across the various cities of the Kingdom for their efforts, and to express his thanks to each individual for their valuable contribution to this historic success, which has been recognized and praised by the entire world. His Majesty also directs words of appreciation to the millions of Moroccans, women, men, and children, who have not hesitated, each in their own way and always in an exemplary manner, to support their national team, which now occupies eighth place in the world rankings. This outstanding result is particularly the fruit of a voluntary, highly ambitious policy, at the sports level and in the field of infrastructure, as well as the choice stemming from the deep-rooted national spirit of talented children from Moroccans around the world to wear the national team jersey and defend its colors with pride and honor. This edition will remain a prominent milestone in the history of the continental competition, as it, in addition to its excellent sporting results, has made it possible to measure the qualitative leap that the Kingdom has achieved on the path of development and progress, thanks to a long-term vision and a unique and effective Moroccan model that puts the citizen at the heart of all aspirations. If this great continental football ceremony hosted by the Kingdom was marred by the unfortunate events that occurred in the final minutes of the final match of this championship, which brought together the Moroccan and Senegalese teams, during which shameful facts and behaviors were recorded; as soon as the intensity of emotion and feelings subsides, the bonds of African brotherhood will naturally triumph; as this Moroccan success is also a success for all of Africa. Morocco will remain proud to have presented on its land a month of popular joy and sporting enthusiasm, and thus contributed to the radiance of Africa and football on the continent. On the other hand, and in the face of defamation and some attempts to undermine credibility, His Majesty the King, may God grant him victory, remains convinced that hostile plans will never achieve their goals, and that the Moroccan people know how to distinguish between things, and will not accept to be led by grudge and division. Nothing can touch the rapprochement that has been woven over centuries between our African peoples, nor the fruitful cooperation between the various countries of the continent, which has been constantly strengthened by more ambitious partnerships. The Kingdom of Morocco was and will remain a great African country, faithful to the spirit of brotherhood, solidarity, and respect that it has always established towards its continent. In accordance with the insightful vision of His Majesty the King, Morocco will continue its firm and unwavering commitment for the benefit of a united and prosperous Africa, especially through the common sharing of its experiences, expertise, and skills.
