Speaking at a conference organized by the Atlantic Council under the theme “Passing the Torch: Building the Legacy of the World Cup," Amrani highlighted the Kingdom’s investment in youth development, modern infrastructure and world-class training facilities.
“Morocco has invested in young talent, modern infrastructure, training centers and facilities that meet international standards, such as the Mohammed VI Football Academy. The results on the pitch show that this model works, ” he said.
Referring to Morocco’s co-hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, the ambassador stressed that the tournament will give the Kingdom an opportunity to showcase its achievements as a stable country, a trusted partner and a natural bridge between Africa and Europe.
“We want the 2030 World Cup to be a great tournament for Morocco, for our partners Spain and Portugal, for Africa and Europe, and for the entire football community, ” Amrani said at the event, which was attended by the ambassadors of Portugal and Spain in Washington, as well as German international and philanthropist Antonio Rüdiger, president of the foundation that bears his name.
He added, “We are ready to make 2030 a historic success."
He noted that the World Cup goes beyond football, describing it as “a national development project and an economic driver" that is expected to accelerate investment in infrastructure, transport, and public services.
Commenting on the Atlas Lions’ "very honorable" run at the 2026 World Cup, Amrani said the national team leaves the tournament with pride.
Beyond the results, he said, the competition revealed new talent and showcased the team’s passion, commitment and collective spirit.
“This team embodied the values that define modern Morocco: ambition, resilience, discipline and unity. It also reflected the King’s long-term vision of investing in youth, talent and human development, ” he added.
The ambassador also praised the United States and Mexico, as well as the host cities, for helping make the 2026 World Cup a success, saying that " the warm welcome, the professionalism of the organization and the passion for football shown by everyone in the United States will remain etched in our memories. "
Participating by videoconference, Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House Task Force for the 2026 World Cup, said the tournament’s torch would soon pass to Morocco, Portugal and Spain “in a spirit of friendship" and with “great enthusiasm for what comes next.”
Spain’s ambassador to Washington, Ángeles Moreno Bau, said the joint organization of the 2030 World Cup would further strengthen ties between the three countries, while Portugal’s ambassador, Francisco Duarte Lopes, said Morocco, Spain and Portugal were fully prepared to host the tournament.
