The Kingdom of Morocco has made sport a catalyst for development thanks to the vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, said Abdellatif Benazzi, a leading figure in French and international rugby of Moroccan origin.
In an interview with MAP on the occasion of the glorious Throne Day celebrations, Benazzi emphasized that the Kingdom, under the leadership of His Majesty the King, has undertaken this strategic shift to reinforce the “impressive” momentum of development that the Kingdom is experiencing, as well as its global prominence.
“The Morocco brand is now recognized internationally through soccer and other sports,” he noted.
Benazzi, who chairs the High Level Committee for Men's Rugby at World Rugby, the sport’s international governing body, added that Morocco's sports strategy is impressive both in terms of the scale of the planned investments and the support it has garnered from the nation's driving forces, who are strongly mobilized for the success of the upcoming major events that the Kingdom will host.
Underlining the efforts to modernize infrastructure (stadiums, airports, hotels, etc.), the resources made available to the national team and clubs, and the resources mobilized to strengthen training, he emphasized the role that the Moroccan community abroad can play in this collective mobilization.
“The role of Moroccans around the world goes beyond passion. It is a responsibility,” said the former rugby player, emphasizing the importance of the commitment of Moroccan sports figures who shine on the international stage to promote Morocco's image.
Benazzi was keen to highlight the values of sport beyond the excitement of competition, particularly its cultural and social dimensions and its role in bringing people together, alongside its sporting and economic aspects.
Another strong point of this strategic vision highlighted by Benazzi is the diplomatic advantage gained through the mobilization of South-South cooperation, particularly with Africa, as well as the strategic partnerships forged by the Kingdom with major powers for the development and prosperity of the country.
Referring to the organization of the 2025 African Cup of Nations and the 2030 World Cup, Benazzi indicated that Morocco will be ready and up to the task of hosting these major sporting events.
“Morocco will not only be ready, but it will also rise to the occasion. We will all be there,” he maintained, adding that the Kingdom now stands as an “example” for other nations that dream of hosting these major continental and global football events.
The former captain of the French national team, currently vice president in charge of international affairs at the French Rugby Federation and chairman of the Six Nations Tournament, said he was convinced of Morocco's ability to succeed in this challenge, emphasizing the many benefits of such events.
He concluded that the momentum generated by soccer today will also benefit other sports, including his beloved rugby.
MAP: 28 July 2025
