In a special report, the spotlight is on the Morocco Fez Pétanque branch, a division of the Maghreb Fez (MAS) board of directors, which faces financial challenges despite its impressive record of achievements.
The branch boasts over 75 players of various age groups and has achieved notable results since its foundation by the late Haj Amar. These include winning the Throne Cup and the Hassan II Cup, in addition to consistently securing top positions in league championships.
The branch takes pride in its players representing the national team, with player Mohsen El Kharoubi standing out by winning the bronze medal at the 2023 Thailand championship.
Despite these successes, the team suffers from a lack of financial support. In this context, branch president Bakassem, a former MAS player, stated that he bears the brunt of funding the branch. He questioned why the team doesn’t receive support despite representing Fez, the scientific capital.
Bakassem pointed out the inequity in distributing support to sports teams in the region, calling for a review of support mechanisms and an evaluation of the achievements of teams and clubs that honor the city of Fez.
The branch president also commended the cooperation with the Railway Club, which provides a space for hosting sports events in the city.
This situation raises questions about the future of pétanque in Fez and how to balance sporting ambitions with the financial challenges faced by local teams.
The report highlights the ongoing struggle between sporting excellence and financial constraints, leaving the future of this successful yet underfunded team uncertain.