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Morocco abbreviated as MAR due to French influence at World Cup

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 13, 2026, 10:49 PM

Last updated Jun 13, 2026

Morocco abbreviated as MAR due to French influence at World Cup

Summary

During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, broadcasters abbreviate Morocco as MAR, which puzzled some viewers. The abbreviation stems from Morocco's French name, 'Maroc,' a remnant from its colonial past. Despite gaining independence in 1956, French remains influential in Morocco. Similar to Switzerland, which is abbreviated as SUI in French, Morocco continues to use MAR for sporting events.

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Key Details

•Morocco is abbreviated as MAR during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
•The abbreviation comes from the French term 'Maroc'.
•French influence persists in Morocco since colonial times.
•Switzerland is similarly abbreviated as SUI in French.
•Understanding these abbreviations aids in viewing international sports.

Latest Updates

10:49 PMYahoo Sports — Why Morocco are abbreviated to MAR at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

What they're saying

"
Many viewers of the 2026 FIFA World Cup have wondered why some broadcasters choose to abbreviate Morocco to MAR during the African nation’s matches at the tournament. Considering the letter A does not appear in the word Morocco, thousands of football fans have been left puzzled at the sight of MAR popping up at the top of their television screens.
— Yahoo Sports

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