Gianni Infantino has paid tribute to former Morocco head coach Walid Regragui following the official announcement of his departure from the Morocco national football team.
Regragui’s exit from the role was confirmed on March 5, bringing an end to one of the most significant coaching eras in Moroccan football history.
In a message shared on Instagram today, Infantino praised the Moroccan coach for his achievements with the national team and his contribution to the global game.
“Congratulations to Walid Regragui for his remarkable journey as head coach of the Morocco national team,” the FIFA president wrote. “I wish him all the best for what comes next and look forward to seeing him again soon.”
The message from the head of FIFA adds to a wave of tributes from players, fans and football figures following the coach’s departure.
Gianni #Infantino salue Walid Regragui et félicite son « parcours remarquable » avec les Lions de l’Atlas .#SNRTnews #WalidRegragui #equipedumaroc #footballmaroc #FIFA #FIFAWorldCup #infantino pic.twitter.com/0AkdHHLir2
— SNRTNewsfr (@SNRTNewsfr) March 7, 2026
Recognition of a historic achievement
Gianni Infantino recognized Walid Regragui’s historic legacy in transforming African and world football
Under his leadership, Morocco reached the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first African and Arab nation to reach that stage of the competition.
The Atlas Lions’ exceptional run in Qatar drew worldwide acclaim and remains one of the most unforgettable milestones in the history of the competition.
During Regragui’s tenure, Morocco strengthened its position among the world’s leading national teams. He departed with Morocco standing 8th in the latest FIFA rankings, the best ever ranking for an African and Arab national team.
His time in charge is widely viewed as a transformative period for Moroccan football, helping elevate the national team’s status on the international stage.
In addition to turning Morocco into one of the most competitive sides in international football, Regragui’s leadership helped build a strong connection between the team and fans.
Following his departure, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation appointed Mohamed Ouahbi as the new head coach of the Atlas Lions.
Ouahbi will lead the team into the next phase of its development, with preparations already underway for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Read also: Walid Regragui: The Coach Who Changed Morocco Forever