Join on WhatsApp 
Join on Telegram Marrakech – Changan Maroc has announced a new partnership as the official sponsor of Raja Club Athletic, strengthening the Chinese automaker’s presence in Morocco’s sports landscape. The partnership was formalized during a signing ceremony attended by Raja President Jawad Ziyat.
In a press release, the company stated that “the collaboration aims to build on shared values of performance, passion, and team spirit.” According to Changan, the partnership also represents “an opportunity to connect with Moroccan audiences through one of the country’s most iconic football clubs.”
“The Raja Club Athletic embodies an energy and fervor that echoes our vision at Changan. As the club’s official partner, we wish to share these values with all sports enthusiasts and affirm our lasting presence in the Moroccan landscape,” said Saad Menioui, General Manager of Changan Maroc.
The partnership comes at a significant time for both organizations. Changan recently claimed the position of best-selling Chinese car brand in Morocco for the first quarter of 2025, according to figures released in May by its distributor Global Sian Motors.
Since its official launch in spring 2024, Changan has sold over 1,000 vehicles in Morocco between June 2024 and March 2025. The brand’s product range includes several models across various segments, from the Alsvin city car to the CS35+ and CS55+ compact SUVs, as well as their premium flagship model, the Uni-K.
For Raja Club Athletic, the sponsorship follows major organizational changes. The club recently transformed into a sports company called “Raja SA” through a landmark partnership with Marsa Maroc in August. Under this arrangement, Marsa Maroc acquired a 60% stake in Raja SA with an investment of MAD 150 million ($15 million) spread over three years.
The total valuation of the club reached MAD 510 million ($51 million), with Raja association maintaining 40% ownership by transferring assets worth MAD 100 million ($10 million), including brand rights and player contracts.
Changan deepens engagement with Moroccan fans through sports
“We are pleased to have Changan Maroc as an official sponsor. This partnership demonstrates the confidence of a major international brand in Raja’s vision and values. Together, we share the same ambition: to advance Moroccan sports and strengthen its influence,” stressed Jawad Ziyat, President of Raja Club Athletic.
Founded in Shanghai in 1862, Changan Automobile began as a manufacturer of military equipment before converting to automotive production in 1957, initially specializing in light commercial vehicles. After merging with Jialing in 1995, the company was renamed Changan Auto in 1997.
Today, Changan is among China’s four main automotive groups, with 14 production bases and 39 factories worldwide. The company has established R&D networks across multiple countries, including Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, and the United States, employing over 18,000 engineers.
One of Changan’s distinguishing features is its vehicle design, developed at its Turin-based studio in Italy under the direction of Klaus Zyciora, former chief designer at Volkswagen.
The sponsorship of Raja adds to Changan’s growing sports marketing portfolio, which already includes partnerships with Spain’s La Liga and sponsorship of Copa del Rey matches.
The press release concludes by stating that, through this partnership, Changan Maroc “reaffirms its commitment to supporting local initiatives that promote inspiration and cohesion within the Moroccan community.”
