The FIFCO World Corporate Champions Cup Makes History in Africa
The 7th edition of the FIFCO World Corporate Champions Cup officially began on Friday afternoon at the Maracana Sports Complex in Fez, marking a historic milestone as it becomes the first edition of the tournament to be held on the African continent. This international event, organized by Smart Sport Consulting in collaboration with the International Federation of Corporate Football (FIFCO), runs from October 23 to 26 and brings together over 15 companies from across five continents.
Participants include teams from countries such as Morocco, the United States, Brazil, Oman, Nigeria, Switzerland, Scotland, India, Mali, Ireland, Gabon, Wales, England, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Canada, France, and Cape Verde. The competition features both 25+ and 35+ categories, aligning with FIFCO’s mission to “promote corporate football as a tool for team cohesion, well-being, and organizational performance.”
Albert Zbily, President of FIFCO, emphasized the significance of this event. He stated, “The beauty of this championship is to get as many participants from all over the world, different companies, different sectors, to come together in friendship, play some football, and appreciate the Moroccan culture.” Zbily noted that Morocco has always been a top choice for hosting the event and expressed openness to holding future editions there.
Zbily also revealed that discussions are already underway regarding sectorial championships and potentially continent-wide events. “Coming back here, with the good food, strong sun, and smiling faces…why not?” he said.
Otmane Benhlima, President of the Local Organizing Committee of the FIFCO World Corporate Champions Cup, highlighted that this edition has brought the largest number of participants to date. He pointed out that companies from all five continents are represented, and the event is expected to generate significant tourism revenue for the Fès-Meknès region.
“Our goal is to develop corporate sports sustainably, whether in football or other disciplines, and we hope this experience will inspire Moroccan companies to encourage their employees to play sports, and maybe even take part in future international competitions,” Benhlima explained.
A Dynamic Opening Day
The first day of the event lasted over four hours, featuring two matches played simultaneously, separated by a Moroccan tent for spectators. On one side of the field, Saudi Arabia and Mali were the first teams to take the pitch, entering with their players waving their national flags and cheered on by their delegations.
On the other side of the tent, England faced off against India in another intense match, which England won 4-1. Overall, ten official matches were held on the first day, along with one friendly game.
For attendees, the 2025 edition provided an opportunity to witness FIFCO’s mission of “building camaraderie, promoting sports within organizations, and fostering well-being through physical activity.” The atmosphere was described as eclectic and dynamic, with diverse cultures coming together on and off the pitch.
Steve Brand, head of referees and a former Premier League official for 15 years in England, praised Morocco as “the most welcoming place he’s been to.” He added that “people here are just fantastic” and described the atmosphere as electric, noting that the energy from the opening day carried through the entire tournament.
The Opening Ceremony and First Match
The opening ceremony took place toward the end of the day, with all participating countries marching onto the pitch while waving their flags. Brazil’s +25 team, represented by SuperSim, and Morocco’s Ventec Maroc, last year’s winner and World Cup qualifier in Crete, then took the field, marking the official start of the tournament.
The atmosphere was electric, both on and off the pitches, as teammates and supporters cheered and encouraged them throughout the match. Morocco emerged victorious with a 4-1 win, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting and memorable competition.