Doha                                                                                                                                                                                                      16 June 2018

Aspire Zone Foundation opened its '2018 FIFA World Cup Russia' Fan Zone in the iconic 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar venue, Khalifa International Stadium, on Friday, 15 June, giving fans a chance to celebrate the most anticipated sporting event in the world. The opening day also marked the first day of Eid Al-Fitr holiday.

More than 1,500 members of the Moroccan community, led by Nabil Zniber, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco attended the opening day to watch Morocco’s first 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia match against Iran. There was widespread enthusiasm and cheering from spectators throughout the match.

Commenting on the occasion, Nasser Abdullah Al-Hajri, Director of PR and Communications at Aspire Zone Foundation said “We’re delighted to welcome so many members of the Moroccan community to Khalifa International Stadium as they support their national team at the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia. Aspire Zone Foundation enjoys a strong relationship with various embassies, including the Moroccan Embassy. Such a show of support for the Moroccan Community is consistent with Qatar’s ongoing, strong relationship with the county, including being one of the first to back its FIFA World Cup bid.”

Nabil Zniber, Moroccon envoy said on the occasion "I’d first like to wish everyone Eid Mubarak. It’s a pleasure to see so many members of the Moroccan community here to cheer on our national team during their first match in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia. I’d also like to extend my appreciation to the other Ambassadors who joined us today.”

Among other dignitaries included Bart De Groof, ambassador of Belgium, Galma Mukhe Boru, ambassador of Kenya and Dr Haruna Bawa Abdullahi Wase, ambassador of Nigeria.

Abdelaziz Sebaa, Ambassador of Algeria to Qatar who also attended the match commented: "The atmosphere amongst spectators was excellent and it felt just like watching a match from the stands. Aspire Zone Foundation has done a great job with the Fan Zone at Khalifa International Stadium – it’s the ideal setting for community members to follow World Cup games and keep up with all the action.”

The Fan Zone seats more than 2,500 people and has car parking capacity for more than 2,000 vehicles. The Fan Zone will also be equipped with the latest cooling technologies, a giant LED screen, and a range of food and beverage stalls creating a unique and memorable atmosphere for the country’s football fans. The experience provides clues as to what fans can expect at one of the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar™ stadiums in four years’ time.

This year’s Fan Zone is sponsored by the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (Main Partner) and Ooredoo (Main Sponsor), as well as Al Attiya Motors and Trading Co., CISCO, Witr Jewellery, Royal Air Maroc (RAM) and Pepsi.