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ALL ABOUT THE BOTOLA PRO CHAMPIONSHIP (MOROCCO)
The Botola Pro, officially known as “Botola Pro Inwi” for sponsorship reasons, is the top division of Moroccan football and one of the most exciting leagues in Africa. With a rich history, historic clubs like Raja and Wydad Casablanca, and a fanbase that lives and breathes football, the Botola has gained prestige both continentally and now internationally. In this article, we'll tell you everything about Morocco's Botola Pro championship: its history, format, club achievements, key statistics, and those unique facts that make it stand out.
Origins and Evolution of the Tournament
The history of Botola begins in 1916, during the French Protectorate, when the first local competitions emerged. However, it wasn't until 1956, after Morocco's independence, that the national league was officially founded under the name "Moroccan National Championship".
Since then, the championship has evolved in both format and professionalization. In 2011, the league was renamed "Botola Pro" upon adopting a fully professional system, with clubs managed under modern rules similar to those of the major European leagues. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) is the entity responsible for organizing the tournament. Over the decades, the Botola has been the stage for great rivalries, such as the Casablanca derby between Wydad and Raja, and has served as a platform for many Moroccan talents to make a name for themselves and then make the leap to Europe or the national team. A constantly growing championship. Thanks to investments in infrastructure, youth development, and improved institutional management, the league has noticeably improved. Currently, Botola Pro is considered among the top 5 African leagues according to the CAF ranking, competing with leagues such as the Egyptian, Tunisian, and South African.
First official edition: 1956-57
Turned professional: 2011
Organizer: FRMF
Current name due to sponsorship: Botola Pro Inwi
CAF Ranking: Top 5 in Africa
The history of Botola is also the history of Moroccan football: full of passion, color, and constant evolution.
Historic Clubs and Titles Won
If there are two teams that dominate the history of the Botola, they are Wydad AC and Raja Club Athletic, both from Casablanca. These giants have starred in the most intense matches, with packed stadiums, spectacular displays, and a rivalry that goes beyond football.
Wydad AC is the most successful club in the championship with more than 20 titles, closely followed by Raja. Other important clubs include FAR Rabat (the army team), Maghreb Fez, KAC Kenitra, and Hassania Agadir. Each region has its representative and its loyal fans.
In recent years, the Botola has seen greater competitiveness thanks to the growth of clubs like RS Berkane and FUS Rabat, which have raised the level and challenged the biggest clubs.
Clubs with the most titles
Wydad AC: more than 22 titles
Raja CA: more than 12 titles
FAR Rabat: 12 titles
KAC Kenitra: 4 titles
Maghreb Fez and MAS Fez: A Historical Presence
Besides local honors, Moroccan teams compete for spots in the CAF Champions League and the Confederation Cup, where they have had outstanding performances and titles, especially in recent years.
This mix of history, passion, and competitiveness makes Botola Pro one of the most attractive leagues in Africa for players, coaches, and even investors.
Current format, facts and curiosities
Botola Pro is played in a classic league format: 16 teams face each other in home and away matches (30 matchdays in total). At the end of the season, the team with the most points is crowned champion and the bottom two are relegated to Botola 2 (second division).
The top two finishers qualify for the CAF Champions League, while the third-placed team (or the Throne Cup winner) qualifies for the African Confederation Cup.
The tactical level has improved and several international coaches have managed in the league. In terms of star players, Botola has been a breeding ground for players who later shone in Europe, such as Achraf Hakimi, Nayef Aguerd, and Youssef En-Nesyri. It has also attracted African footballers who see Morocco as an excellent professional showcase.Did you know...?
Raja and Wydad have one of the most intense rivalries in Africa.
The Casablanca derby has been nominated among the best in the world by FIFA.
Most matches are broadcast on national TV and streamed online.
RS Berkane won the CAF Confederation Cup in 2020 and 2022.
Casablanca's Stade Mohammed V is one of the most vibrant stadiums in Despite not having the global marketing of other leagues, Botola Pro offers spectacle, technique, and passion. The chants of the fans, the colors of the stands, and the intensity of each match make the experience unique. In recent years, Morocco has hosted important international tournaments, and its league has been recognized for its organization and competitive level. Furthermore, its federation has invested heavily in infrastructure, such as the modern Mohammed VI Complex. The future of Botola is promising: more export of talent, greater global visibility, and the ambition to continue growing both on and off the field. For fans looking for leagues with soul, history, and excitement, the Botola is a hidden gem.
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