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Morocco has made sports history after being selected to host the first FIFA Bureau headquarters in Africa in a landmark agreement.Ìý

FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch and the President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF)ÌýFouzi Lekjaa signed the deal in a ceremony on Monday.

Under the accord, Morocco will serve as a central hub for football projects across the continent, ensuring streamlined operations and greater support for local federations.

The new Rabat office will aim to drive sustainable growth, develop talent, and expand football’s reach in the continent.Ìý ÌýÌý

Both parties also committed to facilitating the installation process for foreign FIFA employees in Morocco and supporting the administrative procedures.

A milestone for Moroccan football

During the signing ceremony at the Palais des Congrès, Akhannouch hailed the deal as a milestone for Moroccan sports.

"This achievement builds on Morocco’s growing reputation as a global sports leader, including our joint hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal," he said.

"It reaffirms our readiness to take on international initiatives and underscores our credibility among global sports institutions."

FIFA President Gianni Infantino added: "This isn’t just an administrative office—it's a pledge to advance football across Africa. [...] Morocco has set a shining example of dedication and excellence, raising the bar for others."

CAF President Patrice Motsepe praised Morocco's long-standing contributions to African football which have "inspired progress across the continent" and vowed that the new FIFA Africa Bureau will "strengthen the football ecosystem".

He added: "We are here to mark this special occasion, and we can truly feel the love of the Moroccan and African people."

The announcement coincided with Morocco’s ceremony of the CAF Awards. Bouchra Karboubi was named best female referee of the year, Doha El Madani was honoured as the best young female player, and Lamia Boumehdi received recognition as the best female coach.

Morocco 'sets the standard for Africa'

The new sports deal comes as Morocco prepares to co-host the 2030 men’s World Cup with Spain and Portugal, the first tournament to be held across two continents.

The opening three games will take place in Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay, making it a unique event where teams will compete across different seasons and hemispheres.

During the keynote announcement, Motsepe said Morocco "has set the standard" after becoming the second African nation to host the international competition, after South Africa in 2010.

The country boasts a rich footballing heritage and has heavily invested in developing its sports infrastructure.

The 2030 World Cup holds special significance as it commemorates the 100th anniversary of the inaugural tournament.