Fez Prepares to Host Matches of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Finals

Fez, along with five other Moroccan cities, is gearing up to host matches of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals, marking a major sporting event that highlights Morocco’s status as a premier sports destination in Africa.

Fez: A City of History and Civilization

The selection of Fez as a host city reflects its deep historical and cultural heritage, strategic location in the heart of Morocco, and advanced infrastructure capable of accommodating a tournament of this scale. The ancient city, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for landmarks such as the University of Al Quaraouiyine, the old medina, and its historic city walls, making it a significant cultural and tourist destination.

Cultural Tourism and Boosting African Appeal

Fez annually welcomes thousands of visitors from around the world who come to explore its narrow alleys, traditional markets, and time-honored crafts. Hosting the tournament is expected to enhance tourism appeal and open new opportunities within the African market, thereby stimulating the local economy.

Integrated and Efficient Transport Network

Fez benefits from a well-developed urban transport network, linking it to other Moroccan cities via highways and a modern train station that ensures smooth travel for delegations and fans. Urban transportation within the city has been enhanced with bus services and taxis, alongside special traffic plans to ensure smooth flow during the tournament period.

Fes-Saïs Airport: A Modern Air Gateway

Fes-Saïs International Airport serves as a strategic entry point for African delegations and fans. It has undergone extensive expansions and upgrades, including enhanced security and logistical facilities, and is connected to a wide network of flights from Europe and Africa. Airport services are expected to be further bolstered during the tournament to facilitate arrivals and departures.

Stade de Fès: High Readiness to Host Matches

Stade de Fès is one of Morocco’s largest stadiums, with a capacity exceeding 35,000 spectators. It recently underwent comprehensive renovations that included installing new natural grass, improving lighting, and upgrading facilities to meet the Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards. Security measures and accessibility for persons with disabilities have also been enhanced, along with advanced media and technical equipment.

Fez: A Forward-Looking Vision for Sport and African Cooperation

By hosting Africa Cup of Nations matches, Fez aims to strengthen its role as a sports and cultural hub open to the African continent. Its geographic position in the heart of Morocco makes it a natural meeting point connecting different regions of the kingdom. This hosting opportunity reflects a broader vision that leverages sport as a bridge for cooperation and shared development among African peoples, while reinforcing Morocco’s strategic position as a gateway between North Africa and the continent’s interior.

Fez’s hosting is part of Morocco’s comprehensive plan for the tournament, which will take place across multiple cities. Stade de Fès will host four matches, including key fixtures involving African national teams, positioning the city for a major sporting and cultural event that will boost its regional and international prominence.

About محمد الفاسي