FIFCO World Corporate Champions Cup Launches in Fes for First African Edition

The 7th Edition of the FIFCO World Corporate Champions Cup Begins in Fes

The 7th edition of the FIFCO World Corporate Champions Cup officially kicked off on Friday afternoon at the Maracana Sports Complex in Fes, marking a historic milestone as it becomes the first edition of the tournament to be held in Africa. This event, organized by Smart Sport Consulting in collaboration with the International Federation of Corporate Football (FIFCO), is set to run from October 23 to 26, bringing together over 15 companies from five continents.

Participants come 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 includes both 25+ and 35+ categories, with FIFCO aiming to "promote corporate football as a tool for team cohesion, well-being, and organizational performance."

Albert Zbily, President of the International Federation of Corporate Football (FIFCO), highlighted the significance of the event, stating that it brings together participants from around the world, representing different companies and sectors. He emphasized the importance of fostering friendship, playing football, and appreciating Moroccan culture.

Zbily noted that Morocco has always been a top destination for FIFCO, and he expressed the possibility of holding another edition in the country in the future. He also mentioned that discussions have already begun regarding sectorial championships and 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, stated that this edition features the largest number of participants to date, with companies from all five continents represented. He emphasized the real benefits the event brings to the Fès-Meknès region through tourism revenues.

Benhlima added that the goal is to develop corporate sports sustainably, whether in football or other disciplines. He hopes this experience will inspire Moroccan companies to encourage their employees to participate in sports and potentially take part in future international competitions.

The first day of the event lasted over four hours, featuring two matches played simultaneously, with a Moroccan tent set up for spectators. On one side of the field, Saudi Arabia and Mali entered with their players waving national flags and cheered on by their delegations. On the other side, England faced India in an equally tense 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 experience FIFCO’s mission of "building camaraderie, promoting sports within organizations, and fostering well-being through physical activity."

"The atmosphere is very eclectic and dynamic, with so many cultures playing out, and the hosting capacity is great so far," said the President of FIFCO.

Steve Brand, head of referees and a former Premier League official for 15 years in England, praised Morocco, calling it "the most welcoming place he’s been to." He added that "people here are just fantastic." Brand described the atmosphere as electric, noting that the same energy from the opening day has carried through the entire tournament.

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, which Morocco won 4-1.