'We Have Done Our Part' — Morocco Withdraws From Future CAF Hosting Bids

'We Have Done Our Part' — Morocco Withdraws From Future CAF Hosting Bids

By BSN Sports 

President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), Fouzi Lekjaa, has announced that Morocco will no longer submit bids to host future Confederation of African Football (CAF) competitions, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Lekjaa made the declaration during an interview with Al Jazeera 360, citing persistent criticism and allegations that Morocco enjoys disproportionate influence within African football administration.

"Starting today, Morocco will no longer submit any bids to host African competitions, regardless of their nature. If other countries wish to organise them, we wish them the best," Lekjaa said.

The announcement marks a significant shift for a country that has become one of Africa's most active hosts of major football events in recent years.

Defending Morocco's role in continental football, Lekjaa argued that the North African nation had often stepped forward to organise tournaments when other countries were either unwilling or unable to do so. He dismissed claims of preferential treatment within CAF, insisting that Morocco does not wield undue influence over the organisation's decision-making structures.

According to Lekjaa, Morocco has limited representation within CAF's operational committees, while his position as chairman of CAF's Finance Committee is based on his professional expertise rather than national interests.

The comments come amid ongoing debate in some quarters of African football over Morocco's growing prominence in hosting continental competitions and its influence within the sport's governing bodies.

Despite stepping away from future CAF hosting bids, Morocco remains heavily involved on the global football stage. The country is preparing to host the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup and will co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal.

Morocco's decision could create new opportunities for other African nations to host major CAF events in the coming years. Nigeria, meanwhile, is expected to host the next edition of the CAF Awards as the continental football calendar continues to evolve.

Lekjaa maintained that Morocco's commitment to the development of African football remains unchanged, despite its decision to withdraw from future bidding processes for CAF competitions.