The President of CAF, Dr Patrice Motsepe, has hailed Morocco’s selection as a co-host of the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal as a significant milestone for global football.

He emphasised that the partnership represents a unique opportunity to unite Africa and Europe through the sport.

Speaking after the announcement at the FIFA Extraordinary Congress, Dr Motsepe said, “The Morocco, Portugal, and Spain partnership brings together and unites Africa and Europe through football and inspires all of us to work together to make the world a better place. Today is a proud day for African football as Morocco becomes only the second African country in FIFA’s history to host the FIFA World Cup.”

Morocco, the only African country to have reached the semi-final of the FIFA World Cup, follows in the footsteps of South Africa, which hosted the competition in 2010.

Dr Motsepe acknowledged Morocco’s steadfast commitment to this dream, praising His Majesty King Mohammed VI, the Moroccan government, and the Moroccan people for their leadership and support.

“We thank His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, for initiating and supporting Morocco’s FIFA World Cup 2030 bid,” Dr Motsepe said.

“I am proud of the role and the outstanding leadership provided by our Brother Fouzi Lekjaa, President of the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football.”

Morocco’s bid enjoyed unanimous support from CAF’s 54 member associations, a demonstration of unity within African football. Dr Motsepe expressed gratitude to FIFA President Gianni Infantino and the 211 member associations of FIFA for recognising Morocco’s capability to co-host such a prestigious event.

“Our gratitude goes to FIFA President Gianni Infantino for his visionary leadership and to the 211 Members of FIFA for awarding the co-hosting rights of the FIFA World Cup 2030 to Morocco and to Africa,” he stated.

The 2030 FIFA World Cup will feature 48 teams, with centenary matches kicking off in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay, commemorating the tournament’s roots.

Dr Motsepe also took the opportunity to congratulate Saudi Arabia for securing the hosting rights to the 2034 FIFA World Cup. He highlighted CAF’s partnership with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, which has played a vital role in the development of football globally.