Key facts
- France and Morocco will compete in a World Cup quarterfinal, testing their recently improved diplomatic relations.
- French authorities are implementing security measures, including a ban on flares and fireworks, due to concerns about potential post-match unrest.
- The match is considered to have an increased risk due to its knockout stage nature.
- Historical ties between France and Morocco are significant, influenced by Morocco's past as a French protectorate.
- President Macron's recognition of Morocco's Western Sahara sovereignty plan in 2024 helped to mend diplomatic ties.
The upcoming World Cup quarterfinal match between France and Morocco on Thursday night is set to test the renewed spirit of collaboration between the two nations, which have recently seen a significant warming of diplomatic ties. President Emmanuel Macron's recognition of Morocco's disputed sovereignty plan for Western Sahara in 2024 marked a high point in their relationship, which has historical roots dating back to Morocco's period as a French protectorate from 1912 to 1956.
Despite the improved political climate, French authorities are on high alert for potential security issues. The large Moroccan community in France, estimated at 1.7 million people, combined with a history of violent incidents following major football matches, has prompted security precautions. The Paris police department has banned flares and fireworks for the match, citing the regular occurrence of violence during major tournaments. This follows an incident in May where celebrations for Paris Saint-Germain's Champions League title led to clashes between supporters and police.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez stated that police would be "extremely vigilant" during celebrations, regardless of the outcome, but would not automatically disperse public gatherings. French media reports indicate that authorities privately acknowledge an "increased risk" due to the knockout nature of the match and the high stakes involved in qualifying for the semi-finals.
Historically, France and Morocco have maintained close ties, with France being a major trading partner and security cooperation a cornerstone of their relationship. However, past tensions have surfaced, including allegations of Moroccan authorities using Israeli-made Pegasus spyware on French officials and Rabat declining French aid after a 2023 earthquake. Macron's diplomatic move regarding Western Sahara is seen as crucial for securing Morocco's cooperation on trade and migration.
The connection between the two nations extends to the football pitch, with French captain Kylian Mbappé and Moroccan skipper Achraf Hakimi being close friends off the field. While previous encounters have led to some arrests, they have largely passed without major public unrest. Law enforcement officials also note potential tensions between Moroccan supporters and members of the French-Algerian community, given diplomatic friction between those North African neighbors. The French far-right is also expected to capitalize on any unrest for political gain, though some figures within the party have publicly supported the strengthening France-Morocco relationship.