Casablanca is famous as the gateway to Morocco, which means that it’s super easy for travelers to get to. This makes it the perfect destination for a sporty weekend. You can fly in to the airport on the outskirts of town and be in the football stadium, ready for a match in less than half an hour. If that’s not enough to tempt you, then maybe this itinerary will.
Catch the Football at Stade Mohammed V
The sport that Morocco takes more seriously than any other is football, so it would almost be rude not to kick this weekender of by catching a game. Casablanca is the home of Mohammed V stadium, which is the home ground for two local teams, Wydad Casablanca and Raja Casablanca, but during international games, it also hosts the national team. Whether you’re going local or international, you’re guaranteed to have a good time. The benefit of the smaller games is that you’ll be closer to the action and you’ll pay less for the ticket. The benefit of the international games is you’ll be seeing absolutely world-class football in a packed stadium. Whichever option sounds the most appealing for you, go for it! If you fancy having a bet on the action then it’s worth bearing in mind that laws surrounding gambling in Morocco are a little cloudy. Sports betting is neither explicitly legal nor disallowed, so it’s worth reading up in a bit more detail before placing your bets. Arabianbetting has lots of information on the legality of all sorts of gambling in Morocco and offers impartial reviews of the sites that can be trusted with your money.
Enjoy a Drink at Kick Off
Whether you’re celebrating a win or commiserating a loss, there’s no place better than Kick Off Bar to do it. This friendly sports bar is situated about a twenty-minute walk from the stadium, at 14 Rue Mohamed Sediki. Once inside you’ll notice plenty of other football fans because as the name suggests, this bar really caters to the football crowd. As well as the usual array of drinks, there’s a surprisingly good wine list, with both local options and wines from further afield. There is of course plenty of beer and even a cocktail list if you’re feeling fancy. Although it’s not unheard of to go out for just a drink in Morocco, most people will order something to snack on. If you feel like joining them in a snack then you’re absolutely in the right place. Homemade flatbreads rubbed with za’atar or harissa are warm, delicious, and easy on the wallet. For those after something a little more substantial, there are lots of options for marinated and grilled meat, fresh pizzas, local cheese and charcuterie boards, as well as some of the best homemade falafels in Casablanca.
Enjoy Arabian Racing at Hippodrome Casa-Anfa
After the excitement of your first day in Casablanca, it’s time to up the ante with horse racing at Casa-Anfa. Although horse racing is not nearly as widely enjoyed in Morocco as football is, the people who do love the sport are fanatical about it. Morocco even introduced a government party to ensure that horse racing, particularly of thoroughbreds and pure Arabian horses receives the funding it deserves. As such, the racecourse in the Casa Anfa district of town is immaculately kept and holds race meetings throughout the year. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting on a race day for Arabian horses only then you’re in for a treat. These magnificent creatures are a world apart from the thoroughbreds and quarterhorses that you see on racetracks around the world. With elegant dished faces, high-set tails, and an unbelievably dainty frame, these horses are built for quickly and nimbly traversing difficult desert terrain. On the flat they possess incredible speed and endurance but are also known for their flighty disposition, so get to the parade ring early if you want to catch the pre-race shenanigans.
Get Close to the Horses at Royal Club Equestre
If you’re feeling inspired by the racing at the hippodrome, then you might want to give it a try yourself. The Royal Club Equestre is conveniently located next to the Morocco Mall in the Anfa district of town. Here they offer riding lessons for people of any age. Whilst they do have Arabian horses for you to ride on, rest assured that they won’t be displaying the turn of foot or hot attitude of those you’ve just watched on the racetrack. All of the horses here are thoroughly trained to ensure they’re unflappable for new riders. You’re best to ring ahead to confirm a booking, as the club does get very busy. You can wear whatever you’re comfortable in, but boots with a small heel are preferable, and it probably goes without saying, but no skirts!
Tags: sports betting
