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Badreddine Idrissi, President of the Moroccan Sports Press Association, has stressed that the 87th AIPS Congress in Rabat is taking place at a highly significant and sensitive time, as Morocco has increasingly become a destination for major international sports events, both in Africa and globally.
“This dynamic, in my view, embodies the enlightened vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, which aims to strengthen Morocco’s position as a leading sports destination,” Idrissi stated.
He added: “Interestingly, this 87th edition of the AIPS Congress is being held in Morocco for the second time, following the first edition in 2005, which saw Mr. Gianni Merlo elected as AIPS President—a position he still holds today. Mr. Merlo has always expressed his desire for the congress to return to Morocco, recognizing the great success of the first edition and the momentum it generated.”
Idrissi emphasized that the congress is being held under the high patronage of His Majesty, reflecting a recognition of Morocco’s major initiatives in the sports sector and the realization of the royal vision. “As Moroccan sports journalists, we see the media playing a pivotal role in the success of major sports events. Therefore, it is our duty to be present, to welcome global media delegations, and to ensure that this congress becomes a landmark event in the history of AIPS and a key moment in the creation of sports media content,” he explained.
AIPS President Gianni Merlo emphasized the importance of the high patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI for the Congress taking place from 13 to 17 May, describing it as a profound honor and a source of great joy for all participants in this global event.
“I believe this royal patronage is of immense importance, and more than that, it brings us great happiness. Morocco is a country where sports are deeply rooted, and I can personally attest to that, having known Morocco for many years. This country has produced outstanding sports champions, such as Sa?d Aouita, and especially Nawal El Moutawakel, who will be with us at our Awards ceremony. Morocco has a rich sports history, and I believe we are in the perfect place to celebrate sports and sports journalism,” Merlo stated.
Reflecting on his return to Morocco two decades after the country hosted the AIPS Congress for the first time, in Marrakech in 2005, when he was first elected AIPS President, Merlo expressed his pride in this milestone. “This is a very special occasion, marking an important anniversary. I feel immense pride to be here, where I began my journey as president, and since then, we have recorded many remarkable accomplishments,” he explained.
Regarding the key topics to be discussed during the congress, Merlo highlighted the importance of addressing critical issues facing sports journalists worldwide. “In this congress, we will discuss the most pressing issues for sports journalists today. Our focus will be on artificial intelligence, content creators, and supporting female journalists who continue to face significant challenges and need assistance to emerge and excel. We will also address sports integrity, combating illegal betting, which is one of the most serious problems facing sports today. Moreover, we will emphasize investigative journalism, which is essential to safeguard the future of sports and uphold its principles.”
Idrissi added: “This event should serve as an opportunity to discuss the challenges and obstacles facing sports journalism today, ensuring the continuity of the profession and preserving its integrity. We hope, with God’s will, that this congress will be surrounded by all elements of success, allowing us to honor our country as journalists, as organizers, and as active stakeholders in this global event,” Idrissi concluded.
AIPS Media/ Hamza Ait Messaoud - AIPS Young Reporter - Morocco
