Lekjaa: Morocco’s World Cup Success Reflects King Mohammed VI’s Vision for Youth

Rabat – Fouzi Lekjaa, Minister Delegate for Budget and the president of Morocco’s Royal Football Federation (FRMF), said Wednesday that Morocco’s performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup reflects the success of the country’s long-term investment in youth and sports development under King Mohammed VI’s leadership.

​Speaking during a meeting of the Public Finance Control and Governance Committee at Morocco’s House of Representatives, Lekjaa said Morocco has shown the world that young people are capable of leadership and excellence when provided with the right conditions to succeed.

The FRMF president linked the national team’s rise to a broader strategic vision launched years ago in Morocco.

He said the foundations of Morocco’s football project were laid following the royal message addressed to the first National Sports Conference, and were later reinforced through initiatives such as the Mohammed VI Football Academy and continued investment in the development of football across the kingdom.

A newfound ‘culture of victory’

Lekjaa further argued that the Atlas Lions’ recent performances on the international stage demonstrate that Morocco is “not far from global leadership,” adding that a “culture of victory” has become firmly rooted within the national team.

All members of the national team remain fully aware of the responsibility they carry and are determined to meet the expectations of King Mohammed VI and the Moroccan people during their ongoing World Cup campaign, said the FRMF chief.

He added that players and coaching staff are committed to going “as far as possible” in the tournament.

The minister also expressed gratitude to King Mohammed VI for what he described as continuous support and attention toward Moroccan football, saying the backing serves as a constant source of motivation for the federation and national team.

Morocco will continue its World Cup journey in the Round of 16 after eliminating the Netherlands on penalties earlier this week.