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French authorities have appealed for calm and responsible conduct from football fans ahead of Thursday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-final between France and Morocco, as security agencies prepare for possible unrest following previous high-profile matches.
The highly anticipated encounter has generated significant interest due to the historic ties between the two nations and the large Moroccan community living in France.
Morocco gained independence from France in 1956 and has since maintained largely stable relations with its former colonial ruler. France is also home to hundreds of thousands of people of Moroccan origin, while several members of Morocco’s current national team were born in France and developed through the country’s football system.
Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi, although born in Spain, also has strong links to French football through his club, Paris Saint-Germain.
The two countries last met at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where France secured a 2-0 victory in the semi-finals. While celebrations after that match were largely peaceful, French authorities are taking no chances as emotions build ahead of another high-stakes showdown.
Sports Minister Marina Ferrari urged supporters to ensure the occasion remains a celebration of football.
“I appeal to everyone’s sense of responsibility. It has to remain a celebration,” Ferrari told France Info.
Interior Minister Laurent Nunez also warned that security agencies would take a firm stance against any disorder.
“No misconduct will be tolerated,” he said.
Security has remained a major concern in France following incidents of violence after Paris Saint-Germain’s UEFA Champions League final victory over Arsenal on May 30, when more than 280 people were arrested in Paris over unrest and property damage.
With France chasing another World Cup semi-final appearance and Morocco aiming to make more history on the global stage, authorities have heightened security measures across the country to ensure Thursday’s blockbuster fixture passes off peacefully.
