Morocco has reached a historic milestone by becoming the first Arab and African nation to officially participate in the Winter Swimming World Championships, held from March 1 to 8, 2026, in Oulu, Finland, under the auspices of the International Winter Swimming Association.
This participation reflects Morocco’s ambitious efforts to structure and promote winter swimming nationally, with the support of the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Natation, according to a statement from the Federation.
The Moroccan delegation brings together swimmers from across the Kingdom, from Laâyoune to Fès, including Casablanca, Rabat, El Jadida, and Marrakech, demonstrating strong territorial representation and the desire to establish this discipline within a national sports framework.
Beyond athletic performance, this participation illustrates Morocco’s ambition to diversify its areas of sporting excellence and compete on demanding international stages.
The Kingdom is represented in Oulu by champion Mohamed Manfaloti, a leading figure in both national and international winter swimming. Already a world and Moroccan champion, Manfaloti is recognized for his discipline, consistency, and ability to perform in extreme conditions. His international experience and mastery of ice-water swimming protocols provide a strategic advantage for the Moroccan delegation, aiming to secure Morocco’s place among the world’s elite in the sport.
The delegation is led by Fairouz Chbani, president of Winter Swimming Morocco, who oversaw the logistical and administrative coordination between Morocco and Finland to ensure optimal conditions for athletes in the challenging climatic environment.
This first participation required close coordination between Moroccan authorities and Finnish organizers, allowing Morocco to be represented among the 50 nations competing at this global event.
By also competing, Fairouz Chbani is among the first Moroccan women to participate at this level, reflecting the advancement of Moroccan women in endurance and extreme sports.
“Our presence in Oulu goes beyond sports. It represents an ambition: to carry Morocco’s colors where we are least expected and to pave the way for other athletes ready to take on international challenges,” she said.
Through this historic participation, Morocco demonstrates its ability to explore new sporting territories and strengthen its international visibility. This inaugural presence marks a structural step in the development of winter swimming in Morocco and lays the groundwork for a sustainable global strategy in the sport.
