King Mohammed VI Praises Atlas Lions’ Historic AFCON Run and Sends Message of Hope to Africa

Rabat — His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, sent a heartfelt message of congratulations on Monday, January 19, 2026, to the Moroccan national football team following their runner-up finish at the Africa Cup of Nations (Morocco 2025), saluting an achievement widely regarded as a proud moment for the Kingdom and the African continent.

In His message, the Sovereign extended His warmest congratulations to the players, coaching staff, and the technical, medical, and administrative teams, as well as to the officials of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, praising their collective efforts behind what He described as an honorable continental achievement.

A Campaign Defined by Perseverance and Unity

King Mohammed VI highlighted the team’s exemplary journey throughout the tournament, underlining the values that guided their success.

“Through this distinguished campaign, you have demonstrated that perseverance, dedication, and team spirit are the keys to achieving excellence,” the King emphasized. He added that the Atlas Lions had shown the world “what Moroccan and African youth can accomplish when they believe in their talents and abilities.”

Royal Vision Reflected on and off the Pitch

The Sovereign further noted that the team’s determination and heroic performances confirmed the relevance of His strategic vision to invest in human capital and modernize the Kingdom’s infrastructure. These efforts, He said, have strengthened Morocco’s resilience and ensured world-class readiness, particularly as the country prepares to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

AFCON 2025: More Than a Sporting Achievement

Beyond the sporting results, King Mohammed VI described the successful hosting of the Africa Cup of Nations as a broader symbol of Morocco’s role on the continental stage.

“As much as I consider staging this prestigious championship in our country—with its high-quality organization and warm hospitality rooted in the noble and time-honored values of our Moroccan Nation—as a brilliant sporting accomplishment, I also view it as a message of hope and confidence from Morocco to the continent,” the King affirmed.

He stressed that the tournament confirmed Africa’s capacity to excel and innovate across all fields, driven by talent, ambition, and belief.

Tribute to the Moroccan Fans

The King also paid special tribute to Moroccan supporters, praising sports enthusiasts across the country and abroad for their unwavering support and confidence in the national team throughout the competition.

In closing, His Majesty called on the team to continue their efforts, pursue further achievements, and keep honoring Moroccan football on the international stage, assuring them of His High regard and continued care.

Morocco’s runner-up finish at AFCON 2025, combined with the Kingdom’s exemplary hosting of the tournament, stands as a testament to a long-term vision where sport serves as a vehicle for unity, excellence, and continental pride.