Fouzi Lekjaa Unanimously Re-elected to FIFA Council, Continues Africa Representation
Fouzi Lekjaa Secures Second Term on FIFA Council, Solidifying Moroccan Football’s Global Influence
Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), has cemented his position as a prominent figure in international football, securing a second term on the FIFA Council. His resounding victory, garnering an impressive 49 votes during the elections held in Cairo during the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) Extraordinary General Assembly, underscores the growing influence of Moroccan football on the world stage. This unanimous support from CAF member associations speaks volumes about Lekjaa’s leadership and the respect he commands within the African football community.
Lekjaa’s re-election comes at a pivotal moment for African football. With the continent’s increasing prominence in global competitions, his continued presence on the FIFA Council provides a crucial voice for African interests. His first term saw him actively involved in key decisions shaping the future of the sport, including the expansion of the FIFA World Cup to 48 teams, a move that offers more opportunities for African nations to participate on the biggest stage. [Link to FIFA World Cup expansion information: https://www.fifa.com/fifaplus/en/articles/fifa-council-unanimously-approves-expanded-48-team-fifa-world-cup]
This victory is not just a personal achievement for Lekjaa, but a testament to the remarkable progress Moroccan football has made under his leadership. The Atlas Lions’ historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, becoming the first African and Arab nation to achieve this feat, captivated the world and showcased the burgeoning talent within Moroccan football. [Link to information about Morocco’s World Cup performance: https://www.fifa.com/fifaplus/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/qatar2022] This success, coupled with investments in infrastructure and youth development, has elevated Morocco’s standing within the global football landscape.
Beyond the World Cup success, Morocco has also seen significant strides in other areas. The women’s national team qualified for their first FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023, further demonstrating the country’s commitment to developing football at all levels. [Link to information about Morocco’s Women’s World Cup qualification: Search for relevant information and link if available]. Furthermore, the country’s successful hosting of major continental tournaments, such as the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, highlights its growing capacity and organizational prowess.
Lekjaa’s second term on the FIFA Council promises to be even more impactful. He is expected to continue advocating for greater investment in African football development, promoting good governance and transparency, and working towards a more inclusive and equitable global football ecosystem. His experience and leadership will be invaluable as FIFA navigates the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, including the ongoing evolution of the game and the increasing importance of sustainability and social responsibility. With Lekjaa at the table, African football has a strong advocate to ensure its voice is heard and its interests are represented on the world stage.
Fouzi Lekjaa Secures Second Term on FIFA Council, Underscoring Morocco’s Growing Football Influence
Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), has solidified his position as a prominent figure in international football governance. He was unanimously re-elected to the FIFA Council for a second term, securing a resounding victory with 49 votes during the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Extraordinary General Assembly held in Cairo. This decisive win not only highlights Lekjaa’s personal influence but also underscores Morocco’s rising prominence on the global football stage.
Lekjaa’s re-election comes at a pivotal time for African football. The continent is increasingly recognized for its burgeoning talent pool and passionate fan base. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup being jointly hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, and the expanded format featuring 48 teams, African representation is set to increase, offering more opportunities for African nations to shine on the world’s biggest stage. Lekjaa’s continued presence on the FIFA Council ensures a strong voice for African football’s interests and development during this period of growth. His leadership within CAF, where he serves as a vice-president, further strengthens his ability to advocate for the continent’s footballing ambitions.
This victory builds upon Morocco’s recent footballing successes, including the Atlas Lions’ historic semi-final run at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. This achievement, the first for an African or Arab nation, captivated global audiences and demonstrated the growing competitiveness of African teams. [Link to a relevant article about Morocco’s World Cup performance]. Furthermore, Morocco’s successful bid to host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), after withdrawing its candidacy for the 2025 edition, further cements the country’s commitment to developing football infrastructure and hosting major international tournaments. [Link to a relevant article about Morocco hosting AFCON].
Lekjaa’s influence extends beyond the playing field. He has been instrumental in driving football development initiatives across Morocco, focusing on grassroots programs, infrastructure improvements, and strengthening the national league. His focus on youth development is particularly noteworthy, aiming to nurture the next generation of Moroccan football stars. [Link to a relevant article about FRMF’s development programs]. This commitment to long-term growth aligns with FIFA’s broader vision for global football development, making Lekjaa a valuable asset to the Council.
The unanimous vote of confidence from CAF members reflects Lekjaa’s dedication and effectiveness in promoting African football. His second term on the FIFA Council promises continued progress for the continent and further strengthens Morocco’s position as a leading football nation. As the global football landscape evolves, Lekjaa’s leadership will be crucial in navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
