FIFA to open regional office in Morocco as Atlas Lions top Forbes Arab team rankings
Rabat set to host new FIFA hub during Women’s AFCON final, while Morocco’s national team earns top Arab spot in global valuation
RABAT, Morocco (MNTV) — FIFA will inaugurate a new regional office in Morocco this Saturday, coinciding with the final of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations at Rabat’s Olympic Stadium, in a move reflecting the country’s growing status in global football.
The initiative, developed in coordination with the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), marks FIFA’s first African regional office on Moroccan soil.
The opening will be attended by high-level dignitaries and international delegations, further underscoring Morocco’s deepening ties with international football institutions.
The establishment of the office follows a trilateral agreement signed on December 17, 2024, between FIFA President Gianni Infantino, FRMF President Fouzi Lekjaa, and Moroccan Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch.
The agreement includes support for implementing FIFA’s global projects across the continent, reinforcing Morocco’s role as a strategic partner in developing the game in Africa.
At the time of the signing, Akhannouch described the move as an endorsement of Morocco’s capabilities and a reflection of the global football community’s trust, especially following the country’s selection as a co-host of the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal.
The announcement comes as Morocco’s national football team, the Atlas Lions, continues to gain international recognition.
A new ranking by Forbes has placed Morocco as the most valuable national football team in the Arab world and 14th globally, with an estimated market value of $432.5 million.
The report highlights Morocco’s historic fourth-place finish in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and its current leadership position in Africa according to the latest FIFA Men’s World Ranking as of April 3, 2025.
Forbes noted that the team is preparing to host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations later this year, with hopes of capturing their second continental title. The ranking also points toward the country’s broader preparations for the 2030 World Cup.
Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, valued at $93.6 million, was named the most valuable Arab footballer, strengthening the Atlas Lions’ profile ahead of upcoming international tournaments.
Other Arab teams in the top five include Algeria, Egypt, Tunisia, and the UAE.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
