As part of the Throne Day celebrations, King Mohammed VI on Tuesday, July 30, hosted the Atlas Lionesses, finalists of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), at a royal audience in Tetouan.

The ceremony was both symbolic and celebratory, honouring a golden generation of Moroccan women’s football.

The reception, marking the 26th anniversary of the King’s accession to the throne, highlighted Morocco’s continued rise in continental football.

Reaching the WAFCON final for the second consecutive time, the Atlas Lionesses have solidified the country’s status as a growing power in African women’s football.

This historic recognition by the King reflects a deep and ongoing commitment to national sports development, particularly in promoting women’s participation and achievement.

Far from being a symbolic gesture, the reception aligns with a broader royal vision that places women at the heart of Morocco’s progress.

Morocco’s investment in women’s football has been strategic and far-reaching. Spearheaded by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) under the leadership of Fouzi Lekjaa, a four-year plan (2020–2024) was launched to accelerate the sport’s growth.

This strategy led to the creation of a structured National Women’s League, U17 and U15 championships, and regular financial and technical support for clubs.

Other key measures include: Integrating women’s football into FRMF’s regional academies, establishing training centres for young girls, partnering with schools to scout and nurture talent and expanding media coverage of women’s football at both club and national levels.

The royal audience symbolises a celebration of these collective efforts and a renewed promise of greater ambition.

It reaffirms the role of sport in Morocco not only as a tool of global influence but also as a force for inclusion, dignity, and equality.