Will Morocco Join the Gulf Cup?

Marrakech – Speculation is gathering pace in regional sports media over whether Morocco and other Arab nations could take part in the 2026 Arabian Gulf Cup, scheduled for September in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Qatari newspaper Al-Arab reported that the Gulf Football Association is studying an expansion of the tournament. The proposal allegedly includes inviting prominent Arab teams, such as Morocco, Egypt, Jordan, and Algeria.

The publication suggested that this move aims to raise the competitive and technical level of the tournament. It would also enhance the championship’s marketing and media value, according to the report.

The Gulf association seeks to develop the tournament technically and organizationally, added the same source. However, it would maintain “the historical identity of the Gulf Cup, which is one of the oldest and most important football tournaments in the Arab region.”

Morocco’s inclusion would add major box-office appeal following their recent Arab Cup triumph in Qatar, where the Atlas Lions powered to the title with commanding performances that underlined their growing regional and international stature.

The proposal would require discussions on organizational and technical aspects. These include the number of participating teams, tournament format, and invitation mechanisms before any final decision.

Riyadh’s hosting credentials strengthen the case for expansion, with world-class infrastructure, modern stadiums, and a proven track record in major tournaments – capabilities further reinforced as the kingdom gears up to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

Despite the idea appearing compelling on the surface, sources close to the organizing body have firmly dismissed the reports. Al-Sharq Al-Awsat quoted informed sources categorically denying any plans to expand the tournament.

“What is being circulated regarding expanding the participating teams in the Arabian Gulf Cup by including Jordan, Egypt, Morocco, and Algeria is incorrect,” sources told Al-Sharq Al-Awsat.

The sources clarified that “the senior Gulf Cup will remain as it is without adding other teams.” Any expansion would be limited to youth tournaments in various age categories, not the main competition.

The Gulf Cup began in 1970 in Manama, Bahrain, with four founding members: Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar. The UAE joined in 1972 during the Riyadh edition.

Oman entered the competition in 1974 in Kuwait, followed by Iraq in the fourth edition in Doha in 1976. Yemen became the most recent addition in 2003 during the Kuwait-hosted tournament.

The current format includes eight Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members plus Iraq and Yemen. Bahrain holds the current title after defeating Oman 2-1 in the final of the 26th Gulf Cup in Kuwait.