With 49 votes out of 53, the president of Morocco's football body establishes himself as an essential figure in African and global football scene. His re-election strengthens Morocco's influence within FIFA ahead of major events such as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 World Cup. Fouzi Lekjaa was re-elected on Wednesday, March 11, for a second term on the FIFA Council, the key decision-making body of the organization between each Congress. With 49 out of 53 votes, the president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) nearly achieved unanimity, leading ahead of other elected African members: Egyptian Hani Abou Rida, Nigerian Djibrilla Hima Hamidou (also known as Colonel Pelé), Mauritanian Ahmed Yahya, Djiboutian Souleiman Waberi, and Comorian Kanizat Ibrahim. This re-election took place during the 14th Extraordinary General Assembly of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in Cairo, marking a significant milestone for Morocco, whose influence in both African and global football continues to grow. «Today, Morocco's strong presence on the African continent has been reaffirmed», said Fouzi Lekjaa following the announcement of the results. ?️| #فوزي_لقجع after being re-elected to the FIFA Executive Council for a second term "This is a confirmation of the upward trend in Moroccan football, in line with the wise and prudent policy of His Majesty King Mohammed VI in envisioning Morocco's ties with its brothers on the African continent" pic.twitter.com/yCYtEsxEQB — Arryadia TV (@arryadiatv) March 12, 2025 A Key Role in Global Football Governance The FIFA Council, previously known as the Executive Committee, is responsible for strategic decisions in global football. Comprising 37 members—including the president, eight vice-presidents, and 28 representatives from confederations—the Council drives major reforms and oversees the implementation of football development policies. Fouzi Lekjaa's position within this body is a key asset for Morocco, which is preparing to host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 World Cup, alongside Spain and Portugal. His influence can shape important issues, such as the organization of African competitions and the distribution of financial resources for football development across the continent. Recognition of Morocco's Rise Since taking over the FRMF in 2014, Fouzi Lekjaa has transformed Moroccan football. Under his leadership, Morocco has invested heavily in sports infrastructure, modernized its league, and secured multiple successes on both the continental and international stages. These include Wydad Casablanca's triumph in the 2022 CAF Champions League, the historic qualification of the Atlas Lions to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup, and Morocco's victory in the U23 Africa Cup of Nations. His re-election to the FIFA Council serves as international recognition of this work and further strengthens Morocco's diplomatic position in Africa. This comes at a time when the Kingdom is focused on consolidating its alliances on the continent, particularly in the realm of sports development. A Strategic Mandate Ahead of the 2030 World Cup With his four-year term, Fouzi Lekjaa will have the opportunity to represent the interests of African and Moroccan football on the global stage. He will sit alongside influential figures in international football and play a part in decisions on major competitions, transfer market regulations, and FIFA reforms. His re-election also comes at a critical time, as Morocco is preparing to host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations—a significant event that will serve as a test run for the 2030 World Cup, co-hosted with Spain and Portugal. Having a Moroccan representative within FIFA's governing bodies, especially one who secured the support of 49 out of 53 African members, will be a significant advantage in ensuring the success of these competitions and maximizing benefits for both national and continental football. In addition to his political and strategic influence, his position on the FIFA Council comes with an annual salary of $250,000, according to official data from the organization. This highlights the importance of these roles within global football's hierarchy.
