The General Directorate of National Security (DGSN) of Morocco is hosting a delegation from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) as part of a focused effort to enhance security arrangements ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025, currently taking place in the Kingdom. The FBI delegation, comprised of Douglas Olson, Director of Operations at the Field Intervention Services Division, and Kevin Kowalski, Deputy Director of the Emergency Response Group, is visiting from January 4 to 6.
This visit has been organized to thoroughly review the security and public safety protocols that the DGSN has instituted for the ongoing AFCON finals. According to a release from the DGSN, the FBI’s engagement emphasizes the United States’ interest in Moroccan security strategies, particularly in light of preparations for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, which necessitates the formation of an international security cooperation center according to FIFA guidelines.
The delegation’s activities commenced with an on-site assessment at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat during the Morocco–Tanzania match. They were able to observe various security measures, including the deployment of personnel within and around the stadium, monitoring systems utilizing drones and high-definition cameras, and the digital coordination systems that link both fixed and mobile command centers.
In addition, the FBI officials visited the African Security Cooperation Center, a coordination hub linking Moroccan security forces with police representatives from the participating African nations. During this visit, they assessed the operational framework and technical assets of the center and engaged in discussions regarding security protocols for the Morocco–Tanzania fixture.
The delegation’s program will continue with a visit to Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, where they will analyze security measures for the forthcoming Algeria–DR Congo match on Tuesday. Special focus will be placed on strategies for managing foreign supporters and coordinating operational activities with international police while monitoring crowd safety through designated “spotters.”
This proactive collaboration between Morocco and the FBI underscores the importance of international cooperation in ensuring the safety of large-scale sporting events, setting a positive precedent for future global contests.
