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Rabat – Morocco’s selection to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal reflects its leadership in advancing football infrastructure and talent development across Africa, says CAF President Patrice Motsepe.
The 2024 CAF Awards ceremony, held in Marrakech, brought together high-profile figures in addition to Motsepe, including Moroccan athlete Soufiane El Bakkali, UN Representative Omar Hilale, FMRF President Fouzi Lekjaa, and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, among others.
The event opened with presenters celebrating Morocco, Spain, and Portugal’s upcoming role as hosts of the 2030 World Cup; a significant milestone for global football.
Speaking during the ceremony, Motsepe welcomed attendees and shared his thoughts on the rising status of football throughout the continent.
“It is a privilege to be here today as we celebrate the best of African football — our finest players, including the best men’s and women’s players. Your presence here shows the remarkable progress that African football has made, as it continues to gain recognition and respect worldwide,” he stated.
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Motsepe thanked Morocco for its hospitality and dedication to African football. “I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to King Mohammed VI, the Moroccan government, and the Moroccan people for their warm welcome.”
“I would also like to thank Fouzi Lekjaa and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) for their efforts. My belief in the growth of African football remains strong, and I also thank FIFA President Gianni Infantino and all 54 CAF Member Association Presidents who made this journey possible. This is what makes Africa proud!” he added.
He described Morocco’s upcoming role in the 2030 FIFA World Cup as a defining achievement. “The 2030 World Cup, which Morocco will co-host, is a source of immense pride for the entire African continent. This is truly Africa’s World Cup.”
Motsepe commended Morocco’s leadership for its investments in football infrastructure, noting how these facilities have supported both the country’s domestic football and teams across Africa looking for world-class training environments.
“Morocco has set the standard for Africa,” he said, calling on other countries to invest in infrastructure to develop talent and create opportunities. “The work Morocco has done serves as a model for sustainable football development across the continent.”
The CAF Awards ceremony returned to Morocco for the third consecutive year, reinforcing the country’s position as a hub for African football events. The previous editions were held at the Mohammed VI Football Complex near Salé in 2022 and in Marrakech in 2023.
