LaLiga President Javier Tebas: Morocco is a key player in LaLiga’s international expansion

According to Tebas, the Middle East and North Africa region represents a strategic market for LaLiga, driven by the passion of its fan base. In this context, Morocco holds a privileged position. “There is a special historical relationship with Morocco, and I believe this is also reflected in football,” he said.

The LaLiga president also pointed to the depth of sporting relations between the two nations. “There have always been strong ties, as well as a spirit of unity and mutual understanding between Spain and Morocco in sport in general, and football in particular,” he explained.

The enthusiasm of Moroccan fans for Spanish football represents a competitive advantage for LaLiga compared to other competitions such as the Premier League. Tebas even suggested that, in terms of following in the region, LaLiga could rank above its main English rival.

This observation is reinforced by geographical proximity, shared history and the recent success of Moroccan football, which Tebas described as “structured and well-deserved achievements.”

From economic crisis to stability:

LaLiga’s international positioning cannot be understood without the deep economic transformation it has undergone over the past decade. Tebas recalled a critical situation 13 years ago. “We owed the Spanish state nearly 750 million euros, around 100 million to players, and between 80 and 90 million euros to Social Security.” This was compounded by significant inter-club debt.

Today, the situation has changed completely. “There are no more debts, everything has been paid,” he said. This recovery is based on a preventive economic control system that, according to Tebas, sets LaLiga apart from other European competitions. “We tell clubs what they can spend, whereas elsewhere clubs are sanctioned after overspending,” he added.

Investment, growth and development:

LaLiga’s financial stability has enabled the launch of strategic projects, including the agreement with the CVC fund, which injected nearly 2 billion euros in exchange for 8.5% of audiovisual rights over 50 years, Tebas explained. He added that 75% of this investment has been directed toward infrastructure, technology and the league’s international expansion.

The results are already visible, according to Tebas, with record attendance figures, increased matchday revenues and sustained commercial growth.

In addition, LaLiga’s model strongly encourages investment in youth development, with nearly 20% of first-division players coming from club academies, Tebas noted.

Editorial team/le7tv (with MAP)