Leaked Water at New Rabat Sports Stadium Sparks Controversy
The newly opened Bouregreg Sports Stadium in Rabat experienced embarrassing moments due to heavy rain leakage, which struck Morocco’s capital on Thursday, November 13. This incident has generated significant debate on social media and in sports circles.
While the modern infrastructure of the stadium received admiration, the rainfall exposed flaws in its roofing, which is still under final completion in preparation for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The leaks occurred during a World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of Congo on Thursday, which served as the stadium’s first practical test. Videos circulating on X (formerly Twitter) showed spectators in certain stands using umbrellas and pins to shield themselves from the water, while leaks inundated press areas and upper seating, leading to partial disorganization.
Witnesses described the event as a “sudden rain that revealed structural fragility,” though it did not affect the match, which ended with Cameroon winning 1-0.
Semi-Official Reactions: Successful Test
Some individuals defended the stadium, asserting that the leaks were “expected” since the roof panels made of ETFE material had not yet sealed completely. A source from the federation stated in a local media interview that “this rain was a final test for insulation, and the issues will be repaired within two weeks, ensuring the stadium’s readiness for the Africa Cup.”
Sources indicated that the stadium represents a “architectural masterpiece” and that the event was not a “fiasco” but a “successful rehearsal” that helped identify problems early. On X, a defensive campaign emerged among Moroccan users, comparing the incident to leaks that occurred in more expensive European stadiums, such as Real Madrid’s Bernabéu or German stadiums during the European Championship. One user noted, “It’s good that the flaws displayed at the Bouregreg Stadium are visible… let’s not forget Germany’s issues during the last Euro where they struggled against rain.”
However, the comments were not without criticism, as others labeled the event as another “organizational mess,” calling for an immediate investigation to ensure spectator safety.
