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AFCON 2025 Boosts Morocco’s Economy: Minister Ryad Mezzour Highlights Record‑Breaking Returns
Despite an early exit from the tournament, Morocco’s hosting of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is being hailed as an economic triumph. Industry and Trade Minister Ryad Mezzour told France 24 that the event generated 1.8 times more revenue and investment than typical continental editions, accelerated national growth to above 4.5 % and created roughly 100,000 jobs. The competition also fast‑tracked a decade‑long infrastructure programme, modernising stadiums, roads, airports and rail links, and set the stage for the country’s joint bid to host the 2030 World Cup. Mezzour emphasized that the tournament acted as a catalyst for lasting development, boosting consumer spending by up to 30 %, involving more than 3,000 Moroccan firms and reinforcing Morocco’s reputation as a world‑class event organiser ready for future global spectacles.
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Economic Gains
During a live interview with France 24, Industry and Trade Minister Ryad Mezzour described the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as “one of the most profitable editions ever”. Revenues and investments linked to the tournament were multiplied by a factor of 1.8, a ratio rarely seen for a continental sporting event.
The surge contributed to a national‑growth acceleration that is expected to exceed 4.5 % by year‑end, while creating roughly 100,000 jobs—both direct and indirect—across construction, services and retail sectors.
Infrastructure Leap: Ten Years Gained in Two
In just 24 months, Morocco reportedly “caught up” on a decade of infrastructural development. Projects went well beyond stadium upgrades to include:
- Modernisation of major highways and inter‑city roads
- Expansion and refurbishment of airports
- Upgrades to the national railway network and urban transit systems
- New public‑service facilities improving access to health and education
More than 3,000 Moroccan industrial firms, especially in the construction sector, participated in these works, laying a lasting foundation for everyday mobility and economic activity.
Commercial Boost
Consumer spending rose between 25 % and 30 % according to early estimates, a signal of heightened confidence and purchasing power among Moroccans. Although final figures are still being consolidated, the preliminary data are described as “extremely encouraging”.
Preparing for 2030: A Rehearsal for the World Cup
The AFCON experience is positioned as a trial run for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co‑host with Spain and Portugal. According to the minister, close to 80 % of the sports‑related infrastructure required for the World Cup has already been built and, crucially, has already begun delivering returns.
Logistics, security and hospitality capacities demonstrated during the tournament are presented as a “full‑scale validation” of Morocco’s ability to manage a global mega‑event.
Social Dialogue and Future Reforms
In response to social movements that highlighted health and education concerns before the tournament, Mezzour affirmed that the government has heard the demands of Morocco’s youth and is advancing reforms. He portrayed the current climate as united and action‑oriented.
Closing Message
Concluding his remarks, the minister praised the national team as true ambassadors of the country, emphasizing that beyond the on‑field result, AFCON 2025 proved sport can be a powerful lever for economic development and international projection.