A Royal Celebration: Moroccan King Honors Olympic Champion Soufiane El Bakkali
Tetouan, Morocco – In a heartwarming display of national pride, King Mohammed VI welcomed Olympic champion Soufiane El Bakkali to the Royal Palace in Tetouan on Wednesday. The Moroccan runner earned the gold medal in the 3000m steeplechase at the recent 2024 Paris Olympics, adding another chapter to his already legendary athletic career.
During the reception, King Mohammed VI bestowed upon El Bakkali the prestigious Order of the Throne, Commander class. This honor recognizes not only El Bakkali’s extraordinary athletic achievement but also his role as an inspiration to young Moroccans. The ceremony was attended by Abdel Salam Ahizoun, President of the Royal Moroccan Athletics Federation, highlighting the importance placed on athletics within the kingdom.
This latest victory marks El Bakkali’s second consecutive Olympic gold medal in the 3000m steeplechase, having previously triumphed at the Tokyo 2020 Games. This incredible feat cements his place in history as a dominant force in the sport and a source of immense pride for Morocco.
The King’s gesture underscores the special attention he pays to youth development and his unwavering support for Moroccan athletes across all disciplines. This commitment to fostering athletic talent has helped elevate Morocco’s standing on the global sporting stage, with athletes like El Bakkali serving as powerful ambassadors for their nation.
