Morocco’s sporting culture is vibrant, diverse and deeply rooted in tradition as well as modern competition. From the bustling streets of Casablanca to the high peaks of the Atlas Mountains, sports play a central role in Moroccan life — not just as leisure or competition, but as community, identity and national pride.
In this article we’ll explore the most popular Moroccan sports, highlight the 3 most popular sports in Morocco (with football firmly on top), delve into the world of club football and the Moroccan Football Team players, and touch on some recent news updates (including Morocco’s road toward the World Cup). Whether you’re a sports fan, travel writer or curious visitor, you’ll find fresh insights and lesser-known facts to understand how sport shapes Moroccan society.
Why Sports Matter in Morocco
According to a 2022 survey, more than 50% of Moroccans regularly practice some form of sport. This isn’t just football at a local level — it spans athletics, martial arts, equestrian sports, water sports and more. Sports in Morocco connect to culture, education, health and national ambition. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) and other bodies have increased investment in infrastructure, youth training and international competition.
1. Football (Soccer) – The Unrivalled King of Moroccan Sport
Football is by far the most popular sport in Morocco. It is played in every neighbourhood, beach, school and informal field from north to south.
Why football is so big
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Major professional league: Botola Pro, Morocco’s top flight, features 16 clubs and is highly competitive.
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Legendary clubs: For example, Raja Casablanca (based in Casablanca, founded in 1949) commands huge local and continental followings.
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National team: The “Atlas Lions” have elevated Morocco’s global sporting profile, particularly after the 2022 World Cup run.
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Culture: On match days, especially during international tournaments, the nation celebrates — cafes broadcast matches, streets fill with horns and flags.
Top Football Clubs in Morocco
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Raja Casablanca — a storied club with continental success.
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Wydad AC Casablanca — rivals with Raja; both part of the Casablanca derby.
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RS Berkane — from the Oriental region, recently successful in CAF competitions.
Recent News
Morocco continues to make waves — both in Africa and on the world stage. New transfers of Moroccan players abroad highlight the country’s rising talent, while Morocco’s growing influence in football governance indicates how far the nation has come in professional sports management and international cooperation.
With the Morocco Africa Cup 2025 approaching, excitement is already building. The tournament will showcase not only Morocco’s world-class stadiums and hospitality but also its ambition to lead African football into a new era of excellence. The country’s investment in infrastructure, youth academies, and training programs positions it as one of the continent’s strongest contenders.
In a historic moment for Moroccan football, the Morocco National Under-20 Football Team has clinched the Under-20 World Cup, defeating Argentina 2-0 in a thrilling final. Their victory has captivated fans across the nation, highlighting the incredible talent and determination of Morocco’s emerging stars. This win is a testament to the long-term vision and strategic planning by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF).
This triumph not only showcases Morocco’s growing football prowess but also reinforces the country’s rise as a football powerhouse, alongside its iconic clubs like Raja Casablanca and Wydad AC. With this monumental achievement, the future of Moroccan football has never been brighter.
2. Equestrian Sports & Traditional Horse-Riding (Tbourida)
Among the most intrinsic “cultural” sports in Morocco is Tbourida, also called fantasia, where horsemen line up and fire rifles in synchronized displays. This equestrian artistry is both sport and ceremony. Endurance riding and show-jumping are also popular, especially in regions with strong horse-riding traditions.
3. Athletics (Track & Field)
Morocco has long produced world-class middle and long-distance runners such as Hicham El Guerrouj and Said Aouita. Athletics is widely practiced and supported: a recent report noted athletics is one of the top public-policy targets for Moroccan sport. Moroccans dominate in steeplechase, cross-country and track events at African and global levels.
4. Martial Arts & Combat Sports
Martial arts rank high in Morocco’s sporting hierarchy. Karate, judo, kickboxing and Muay Thai are growing rapidly, with Morocco producing medal-winning competitors. These sports often appeal to urban youth and are becoming part of the national sports narrative.
5. Surfing, Kitesurfing & Water Sports
Morocco’s Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts provide excellent conditions for surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing. Areas like Taghazout, Agadir and Essaouira are international destinations for water sport enthusiasts. These activities are part of Morocco’s sports-tourism mix.
6. Cycling & Mountain Biking
Road cycling and mountain biking are popular in Morocco’s terrain — from the High Atlas to the desert plateaus. The country hosts events like the Tour du Maroc and promotes cycling for both leisure and competition.
7. Golf
Though perhaps less “popular” in terms of mass participation, golf in Morocco is important at a tourism and elite level. Morocco hosts international tournaments like the Hassan II Trophy and offers high-quality resorts and courses.
8. Basketball
Basketball is growing among the younger generation in Morocco, with clubs, youth academies and competitions gaining momentum. It plays a strong role in communities and city life.
9. Traditional & Rural Sports
Moroccan rural communities maintain sports and games rooted in tradition — archery in Berber villages, horse-racing in desert zones, camel racing, and local wrestling. These are often overlooked but form a key part of the “popular Moroccan sports” spectrum.
10. Esports & Digital Sports
Though newer, esports (competitive gaming) is on the rise in Morocco, particularly among the youth. Internet cafés host tournaments and local champions are emerging. Reddit threads highlight interest.
The 3 Most Popular Sports in Morocco
If we boil down to the top three by popularity, infrastructure and cultural impact:
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Football
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Athletics
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Martial Arts & Combat Sports
These three dominate in terms of participation, national-level success, media coverage and community involvement.
Why Morocco Continues to Rise in Sports
Several factors contribute:
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Long-term investment by federations and government (e.g., youth academies, training centres).
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Strong cultural affinity for sport and competition — win or lose, participation matters.
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Geographic diversity: mountains, coastlines, deserts allow a wide range of sports.
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Growing tourism and international exposure, bringing in new disciplines and infrastructure.
The Moroccan Football Team: Players & Global Ambitions
While our focus is broader than just football, it’s impossible to talk about popular Moroccan sports without acknowledging the national team’s influence. The “Atlas Lions” ( Morocco’s national men’s football team ) recently secured an emphatic victory against Niger, keeping them on strong footing toward the 2026 World Cup.
Players like Hakim Ziyech and Achraf Hakimi bring international spotlight to Moroccan football. Recent transfers and media interest reflect Morocco’s growing imprint in global football.
Clubs like Raja Casablanca and Wydad AC not only dominate domestically but also internationally — their continental achievements contribute to national pride and sport culture.
What Makes Moroccan Sports Unique?
Here are some lesser-known insights you won’t find in many articles:
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In neighbourhoods throughout Morocco, small football matches take place spontaneously on beaches, alleyways or outside mosques — showing how embedded sport is in daily life.
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Some sports serve dual roles: for example, equestrian games like Tbourida combine performance, culture, and local sport.
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Morocco’s mountainous terrain means trail running, mountain biking, and skiing (e.g., Atlas Mountains) are niche but growing sports — linked to tourism.
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The spread of sports isn’t just in cities — rural zones and Amazigh villages maintain traditional games, which contributes to the national sports identity.
How to Experience Moroccan Sports as a Visitor
If you travel to Morocco and want to engage with local sports culture:
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Attend a Botola Pro league match in a city like Casablanca or Rabat — the atmosphere is electric.
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Visit local athletics meet or running event — Moroccan runners are highly respected.
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Explore traditional equestrian performances in rural regions or during cultural festivals.
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Try beginner surfing or kitesurfing in Taghazout or Essaouira for a different angle on Moroccan sport.
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Visit sports museums or stadium tours — some clubs offer guided visits.
Popular Moroccan Sports & Their Future
Moroccan sports culture is more than just football. While football remains dominant, other sports like athletics, martial arts, water sports and traditional games contribute to a diverse national sporting ecosystem. With increasing investment, international exposure and societal support, Morocco is poised to deepen its legacy. From neighbourhood pitch to continental stadium, from desert trails to surf waves, sports in Morocco tell a story of community, ambition and identity.