Morocco officially withdrew its request to host the 2023 CAF Women Champions League in favor of Côte d’Ivoire, announced head of the Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), Faouzi Lakjaa, on Thursday.
The surprise statement came at the CAF Executive Committee (EXCO) meeting in Algiers, Algeria.
Lekjaa highlighted the deep, long-standing ties binding Morocco and Côte d’Ivoire as the reason for the withdrawal, stressing that this decision symbolizes the strong relationship and brotherhood between the two countries.
He added that by stepping aside and supporting Côte d’Ivoire’s bid, Morocco aims to strengthen cooperation and collaboration within the realm of African football.
Côte d’Ivoire is set to host the Africa Cup of Nations finals beginning in January 2024, and the FRMF head highlighted that this gesture gives the FRMF an opportunity to support and encourage the Ivorian Football Federation in doing so.