Moroccan civil servant, sports executive and politician, president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation since 2014
Morocco has reached the World Cup quarter-finals for the second time, defending its new style with a disciplined counter-attack that secures a 1-0 win over Canada. The victory confirms Morocco as Africa’s first two-time World Cup knockout-stage qualifier, while raising questions about the direction under the new coach and past leadership.
France has eliminated Morocco 2-0 in Boston, with Mbappé scoring and setting up Dembele as they advance to the World Cup semi-finals. Morocco, chasing revenge after 2022, bows out but shows a young, improving side.
AI-driven prediction markets have surged during the 2026 World Cup, outpacing traditional sportsbooks. Kalshi leads, with record trading during the tournament, while fans wager through novel formats. The event follows a dramatic semi-final and a controversial banner incident.
The Norwegian Football Federation has called for Gianni Infantino to resign amid fallout from his bid to privatize the World Cup via the FIFA Forward Enterprise. UEFA maintains its boycott threat and several European federations have withdrawn support as Infantino seeks re-election next March.
Palestinian detainees and Gaza health officials report severe health deterioration among detainees held by Israel, while rights groups call for independent medical examinations and accountability. New details highlight alleged torture and medical neglect in prolonged detention amid ongoing conflict dynamics.
The FIFA president has drawn support from several signatories ahead of next year’s vote, even as a revolt grows over a plan to sell World Cup stakes to private investors. European and regional federations have warned of consequences, and some signatories have withdrawn support amid governance concerns.
Infantino is facing a leadership crisis as CONCACAF, UEFA and AFC push for his resignation amid a failed World Cup privatization plan. He is meeting Dominican officials while allies seek to rally support and counter moves to unseat him ahead of the March 2021 presidential election. FIFA has not commented on ongoing requests for change.
Voters in Guinea‑Bissau have approved a new constitution that shifts the country from a semi‑presidential to a stronger presidential system, with provisional results showing about 70% support and turnout near 55–60%. The charter gives the president power to appoint and dismiss the prime minister and cabinet, create or abolish ministries and dissolve parliament ahead of December elections.
Morocco, Spain and Portugal are co-hosts for the 2030 World Cup, with FIFA yet to decide the final venue. Moroccan PM Akhannouch warns against premature promises as tensions run over where the final will be played. Multiple leaders emphasize resolving hosting rights with their allies. The 2030 tournament will mark the competition’s 100th anniversary.
Moroccans have gone to the polls to elect 395 deputies in a vote dominated by economic grievances, high youth unemployment and fallout from last years Gen Z protests and Julys mass crossing into Ceuta. Nearly 16 million registered voters face an electorate skewed to older cohorts; only about 4% of registrants are aged 1824. Results are expected Thursday.
The Authenticity and Modernity Party has won the most seats in Morocco's parliamentary election, but no party has an outright majority. PAM will need to form a coalition to govern while turnout remains historically low. The king will appoint the prime minister from the largest party. Youth discontent and calls for better public services persist as the country prepares for the 2030 World Cup.
Fatima Zahra El Mansouri has been named Morocco's first female prime minister after PAM won the most seats in the parliamentary elections. She is tasked by King Mohammed VI to form a government and will lead negotiations to build a coalition. Turnout was the lowest in two decades as PAM edges ahead of rivals. El Mansouri has previously served as Marrakech mayor and housing minister.