Morocco is home to exceptional sports talents who inspire the nation with their remarkable achievements. In 2025, these five iconic athletes not only excel in their fields but also contribute to the growth of sports within Morocco. Here’s a look at the 5 top sports stars working in Morocco.
1. Nawal El Moutawakel
Sport: Athletics and Sports Leadership
The legendary Nawal El Moutawakel, the first Moroccan woman to win Olympic gold (1984), remains an influential figure in Moroccan sports. Living in Casablanca, she actively participates in sports governance and development.
As of January 2025, Nawal El Moutawakel continues to be a prominent figure in the international sports community, building upon her legacy as a trailblazer for gender equality in athletics.
In October 2023, El Moutawakel was re-elected as a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) during its 141st session in Mumbai, India, securing a new eight-year term. This re-election underscores her enduring influence and commitment to the Olympic movement.
Reflecting on the progress of gender parity in sports, El Moutawakel expressed profound satisfaction with the achievement of full gender equality at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. She remarked, “This is the happiest moment for me. The biggest achievement is to see that all International Federations are presenting women in their sport.”
In April 2024, to commemorate the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, El Moutawakel returned to the training track, offering master classes in athletics. This initiative highlighted her dedication to nurturing the next generation of athletes and promoting the role of sport in societal development.
2. Achraf Hakimi
Sport: Football
Achraf Hakimi, one of the most celebrated Moroccan footballers, continues to captivate fans. Though internationally recognized for his performances with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Morocco’s national team, Hakimi has recently dedicated part of his time to promoting youth football in Morocco.
His passion for giving back to the community has made him a national hero. Hakimi regularly trains with local teams and supports football academies to nurture emerging talent.
3. Soufiane El Bakkali
Sport: Athletics
Soufiane El Bakkali, Morocco’s Olympic gold medalist in the 3000-meter steeplechase, is at the peak of his career. Based in Fez, he combines his training with mentoring young athletes across Morocco.
El Bakkali’s achievements in global athletics have placed Morocco firmly on the map, while his work with aspiring runners showcases his dedication to inspiring the next generation of athletes.
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4. Abdeslam El Gharbaoui
Sport: Karate
A leading figure in martial arts, Abdeslam El Gharbaoui is a karate champion who trains and competes locally. Residing in Rabat, he is an advocate for martial arts education in schools, believing in its ability to teach discipline and resilience. El Gharbaoui regularly hosts workshops and tournaments, elevating the sport’s profile within Morocco and inspiring young martial artists.
5. Sofia Alaoui
Sport: Equestrianism
Sofia Alaoui is a renowned equestrian who has made Morocco proud in international competitions. Based in Marrakech, she runs an equestrian training center where she coaches aspiring riders and promotes Morocco’s rich equestrian culture.
Alaoui is also an advocate for preserving traditional Moroccan horsemanship while integrating modern techniques, making her a pivotal figure in equestrian sports.
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