What You Need to Know
A delegation from the FBI visited Morocco to assess security measures for the Africa Cup of Nations 2025. Their focus was on the preparations for the knockout match between Algeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo, gathering insights for future events, including the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.
Africa. A delegation from the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) arrived in Morocco at the end of last week to review the security measures implemented by the organizing committee for the Africa Cup of Nations 2025.
The American agents showed particular interest in how preparations were managed for the knockout match between the Algerian national team and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
According to Moroccan media reports, the FBI delegation traveled to Morocco to observe how the match was being managed by Moroccan authorities.
FBI Scrutinizes Crowd Management
The American delegation arrived in Morocco last Sunday, led by Douglas Olson, Director of Operations within the Field Response Services Division, and Kevin Kowalski, Deputy Director of the Emergency Response Group.
Members of the delegation have already begun monitoring the security measures in place during the match between Morocco and Tanzania, which ended with a victory for the Atlas Lions.
Their observations included the deployment of field units, levels of inspection and surveillance, and the use of high-definition video monitoring systems, in addition to the employment of drones, all of which were subjected to thorough scrutiny.
The scene was repeated on the pitch of the new Prince Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, which accommodates over 65,000 spectators, but this time with a greater focus on how foreign fans are received and managed, alongside the level of coordination between Moroccan police and foreign law enforcement agencies involved in securing the tournament.
FBI agents aim to gather as much information and experience as possible in preparation for the organization of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
The FBI’s involvement in international sporting events is not unprecedented, as security concerns have grown in recent years. With the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 World Cup, ensuring safety for large crowds has become a priority for organizing committees and law enforcement agencies alike.
The Africa Cup of Nations is a major football tournament that attracts significant international attention. As countries prepare to host such events, collaboration between local authorities and international agencies like the FBI is essential for effective security planning and execution.
