The move by FIFA signals a shift from a strictly centralised governance model in Zurich to a more localised presence aimed at enhancing funding access, training initiatives, refereeing standards, and infrastructure across African federations.
By Abioye Damilare Samson
FIFA has inaugurated a new regional office in Rabat, Morocco, as part of its strategy to deepen support for football development across Africa. Situated next to the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Salé, the facility will coordinate FIFA’s programmes and operations in North and West Africa, bringing the organisation closer to its 54 member associations on the continent.
The move signals a shift from a strictly centralised governance model in Zurich to a more localised presence aimed at enhancing funding access, training initiatives, refereeing standards, and infrastructure across African federations.
With Morocco preparing to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, the regional office is expected to play a strategic role in logistics, planning, and collaboration as global attention increasingly turns toward African football.
President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, Fouzi Lekjaa, described the opening as part of a two-decade-long vision spearheaded by King Mohammed VI. “This office is part of a long-term plan to turn Morocco into a hub for football excellence”, he said.
The Rabat branch becomes FIFA’s latest foothold on the continent and is expected to accelerate technical development and administrative support for national football associations in the region.