King Mohammed VI has praised the successful hosting of the 35th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) by Morocco, describing the tournament as both a Moroccan and African achievement, and stressing that attempts to discredit it “will never reach their aims”.
In a statement issued by the Royal Office following the conclusion of the competition, which was held from December 21, 2025 to January 18, 2026, the King expressed his gratitude to all members of the Moroccan nation who contributed to what he described as the “full success of this wonderful event”.
The monarch particularly congratulated citizens across the Kingdom’s various cities for their efforts, thanking them for their “valuable contribution to this historic success”, which he noted had been acknowledged and acclaimed worldwide.
King Mohammed VI also addressed his congratulations to millions of Moroccan women, men and children for their exemplary and tireless support of the national team, currently ranked as the world’s eighth-best. The statement said this result was the fruit of a proactive, high-level sports and infrastructure policy, as well as the patriotic choice of talented young Moroccans from the diaspora to represent their country and defend its colours with pride.
According to the Royal Office, this edition of AFCON will stand as a milestone not only for its sporting outcomes, but also as a demonstration of Morocco’s progress on the path to development, driven by a long-term vision and what the statement described as a unique and efficient Moroccan model that places the citizen at the heart of ambition.
While acknowledging that the tournament was “sadly marred” by regrettable incidents and deeply deplorable behaviour in the final minutes of the match between Morocco and Senegal, the King stressed that inter-African fraternity would ultimately prevail. The statement underlined that Morocco’s success was also an African success, adding that the Kingdom remains proud to have offered a month of popular joy and sporting emotion, and to have contributed to the prominence of Africa and its football.
In reference to denigration and attempts at discrediting, King Mohammed VI said he remains convinced that hostile schemes will not achieve their goals, and that Moroccans know how to maintain balance and avoid resentment and discord. The statement emphasised that nothing will alter the closeness forged over centuries between African peoples, nor the cooperation built with countries across the continent through increasingly ambitious partnerships.
The Royal Office reaffirmed that Morocco “is and shall remain a great African country”, faithful to the spirit of brotherhood, solidarity and mutual respect. In line with the King’s vision, the statement said Morocco will continue its steadfast commitment to a united and prosperous Africa, notably through the exchange of experiences, expertise and knowledge.
