The international recognition of the efficiency of Moroccan security apparatus is no longer merely transient diplomatic commendations, but has transformed into a strategic field partnership that has placed the kingdom at the heart of the “White House task force” responsible for securing the 2026 World Cup. This direct American choice, which includes the highest leadership levels in Washington, cements Morocco as a transcontinental soft security power capable of exporting its model of “sport security” to the largest global events.
This Moroccan ascent to coordinating security with the White House is the direct result of a radical modernization initiative led by Mr. Abdelatif Hammouchi, Director General of National Security and Territorial Surveillance. Since the launch of this initiative, the security institution has transitioned from its traditional role to an intelligent system dependent on proactivity, digitization, and international cross-border cooperation. This development is what has made the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and American intelligence agencies view Rabat as an indispensable partner, not only in combating terrorism but also in designing security for massive events.
Before arriving in Washington, Moroccan security competencies left their mark with notable successes at major international stations, making them the “critical factor” in the equation of global sports security:
• World Cup Qatar 2022: Morocco provided significant security and logistical support to Qatar during the organization of the 2022 World Cup. This contribution included sending thousands of specialized security personnel and providing qualitative intelligence and technical support from the General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance (DGST) to the security command center in Doha. These efforts received widespread acclaim and recognition from Qatari authorities for the effectiveness of Moroccan interventions in ensuring the success of the World Cup from a security standpoint.
• Paris Olympics 2024: Moroccan security forces actively participated in securing the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, sending specialized teams for detecting explosives and hazardous objects, in addition to liaison officers to ensure direct coordination with French authorities. French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin expressed his gratitude and appreciation for the critical logistical and security support provided by Morocco.
• Arab Cup 2025 and Future Events: Moroccan security cooperation continues to secure regional and international events, such as the Arab Cup 2025. Morocco is also accumulating dual experience as both an organizer and a security provider for major events like the Africa Cup 2025 and the 2030 World Cup, making it an international reference in the field of “sport security.”
Morocco’s involvement in securing the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, carries a profound symbolic significance coinciding with the 250th anniversary of Moroccan-American friendship. The invitation extended by the White House to Morocco to participate in the task force chaired by the American president himself confirms that trust in the “Moroccan security brand” has reached its peak, allowing the kingdom to participate in securing continental events on American soil, a privilege granted to only a select few allied countries.
With these rapid steps, Morocco is transforming from a mere “contributor” in securing international events to a global “reference” accumulating expertise in preparation for its major engagements, topped by the 2030 World Cup. The success of Moroccan security in decoding cross-border threats, as seen in major international cases praised by the FBI, ensures that its participation in the 2026 World Cup is an additional guarantee for the success of this global football festivity.
