The sports economy constitutes a strategic lever for the development of Morocco within the framework of advanced regionalization, an ambitious policy aimed at strengthening local governance and promoting equitable development between regions.
This dynamic, initiated by the New Development Model (2021), recognizes sport as a transversal sector capable of generating significant economic, social and cultural benefits, while strengthening the attractiveness and competitiveness of territories (NMD Report, 2021 ).
Sport, a stakeholder in the Kingdom’s economy
Sport contributes directly to the Moroccan gross domestic product (GDP), representing around 0.5% in 2023, an increase compared to 2018 when it represented 0.3% (HCP, 2023). This progression is explained by massive investments in sports infrastructure, estimated at more than 15 billion dirhams over the last decade.
The FIFA Club World Cup, organized in Morocco in 2023, alone generated economic benefits of 480 million dirhams, while attracting more than 300,000 spectators, 60% of whom came from abroad (Ministry of Sports, 2023).
In addition, the sports sector promotes job creation. According to an ANAPEC study, more than 50,000 direct and indirect jobs are linked to the sports economy, including events, sports marketing and infrastructure maintenance (ANAPEC, 2023). These jobs contribute to reducing regional disparities by stimulating local economies and encouraging professional mobility.
The attractiveness of our regions through sport!
Advanced regionalization offers an ideal framework to exploit the potential of sport in Moroccan regions. Certain regions, such as Tangier-Tétouan-Al Hoceïma, have been able to position themselves as centers of excellence thanks to modern infrastructures such as the Grand Stade de Tangier, a true center of excellence for the Kingdom’s next international competitions (Ministry of ‘Interior, 2023). These facilities strengthen the attractiveness of the region, attract foreign investment, and promote sports tourism.
Sport also contributes to the cultural influence of the regions. The Cave of Hercules, an emblematic site of Tangier, has recently been integrated into sports tourism circuits. At the same time, the Souss-Massa region stands out thanks to events such as the Agadir Green Marathon, which combines sport and ecotourism, attracting more than 10,000 participants each year, 30% of whom are foreigners (Moroccan National Tourism Office, 2023).
The governance of sport, an essential driver of its sustainability
The sports economy fits perfectly into the vision of advanced regionalization by promoting innovative local governance. Regional councils, now with expanded powers, play a key role in the management and financing of sports infrastructures. Public-private partnership (PPP) is also a promising mechanism.
For example, the Casablanca-Settat region invested 1 billion dirhams in the Mohammed V sports complex through collaborations with private actors, thus improving the quality of equipment while reducing public costs (HCP, 2023).
In addition, digitalization is transforming the sporting landscape. Start-ups like “Sporty Maroc” use digital platforms to democratize access to sporting activities, particularly in rural areas. This model aligns with the objective of reducing regional inequalities and encourages broader participation of the population, particularly women and young people.
The social aspect and inclusion, noble vectors of sport
Beyond economic aspects, sport is a powerful tool for promoting social inclusion and territorial cohesion. In marginalized areas, such as the Rif or the Oriental, sports projects financed by the INDH (National Initiative for Human Development) have enabled thousands of young people to access sporting activities. These initiatives, combined with education and awareness programs, reduce the risk of social exclusion and promote the integration of young people into society.
Women’s sport, once under-represented, is experiencing a rise in power. In 2023, the national women’s Football team reached the round of 16 of the World Cup, generating national enthusiasm and encouraging many young girls to engage in sporting disciplines (Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football, 2023). This success illustrates the positive impact of public policies in favor of gender equality, a fundamental pillar of advanced regionalization.
Sustainable development through sport, a priority for the Kingdom!
Finally, the sports economy directly contributes to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Goal 8, which promotes decent work and economic growth, is reinforced by job creation in sports industries. Goal 11, which aims to make cities inclusive and sustainable, is being achieved through projects such as the Rabat Olympic Park, which combines sports facilities and green spaces for residents (UNESCO Morocco, 2023).
Future prospects confirm this trend. Morocco’s co-organization to host the 2030 World Cup, in partnership with Spain and Portugal, could generate more than 10 billion dirhams in investments and consolidate the position of sport as a pillar of regional development (FIFA, 2023 ) without forgetting the men’s African Cup of Nations in a year and the U17 Women’s World Cup which will take place every year from 2025 to 2029 in Morocco.
The sports economy, as a key instrument of advanced regionalization, plays a fundamental role in transforming Morocco into a model of integrated and sustainable development. By mobilizing local resources, promoting innovation and strengthening territorial governance, sport contributes to reducing regional disparities while consolidating the international positioning of the Kingdom. The strategic vision carried by Moroccan institutions, supported by national and international actors, opens up promising prospects for the future. This dynamic calls for increased synergy between regions and a collective commitment to make sport a driver of economic and social progress.
The international conference organized by the UNA Atlantique Group constitutes an exceptional opportunity to explore these issues in greater depth, by bringing together experts, decision-makers and practitioners around a common reflection on the links between governance, innovation and regional development.
*Secretary general and associated researcher at NejMaroc
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