Wydad supporters condemn travel ban to El Jadida

A supporters’ group backing Wydad has criticised the ban that prevented fans from travelling to El Jadida to support the club against Difaa Hassani El Jadidi in the second round of the professional championship, played last Saturday. The group says the measure runs counter to citizens’ freedom of movement.

In a statement issued after the match, the group said its members were stopped while making their way to El Jadida. They were unable to reach El Abdi Stadium or support Wydad Athletic Club. The group said it had decided to turn back to protect its members and avoid any contact or escalation.

It called on the relevant authorities to seek ways for supporters to attend matches rather than resorting to travel bans. In its view, managing supporters’ journeys is a significant challenge ahead of upcoming sporting events that Morocco will host.

The group said “Wydadism” remained its main motivation when travelling, and that its presence in different cities and countries was intended to support Wydad Athletic Club. It also warned of “parties that want to harm Wydad”, accusing them of trying to sow division within the club through fake accounts and campaigns targeting the president, coach, players and the group itself.

The statement concluded with an appeal for Wydad supporters to put aside their disagreements and unite behind the club, its emblem and its colours. The group described unity among the club’s different components as a source of strength for Wydad.