Washington DC Declares May 8 as ‘WAC Day' to Honor Wydad Athletic Club

Morocco World

3 days ago

Marrakech – The District of Columbia has officially proclaimed May 8 as 'WAC Day' in recognition of Wydad Athletic Club's prestigious history and cultural impact. The announcement emerged while the Moroccan club participates in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.
In an official statement, Wydad conveyed the news to supporters in Morocco and abroad. The club announced that the District of Columbia has dedicated May 8 of each year to celebrate the anniversary of 'Wydad of the Nation.'
'This recognition acknowledges our prestigious history and sporting and cultural influence at national and international levels,' the statement continued, noting the date would be officially known as 'WAC Day.'
The resolution was adopted by the District Council and championed by Councilmember Robert C. White Jr. The official text acknowledges the contribution of Wydad, founded in 1937, to sports development and the defense of universal values.
'The Council of the District of Columbia recognizes and honors the history, achievements, and enduring spirit of Wydad Athletic Club, inspiring future generations in the Metropolitan area of the District of Columbia, and declares May 8, 2026 as Wydad Athletic Club Day in the District of Columbia,' reads part of the proclamation.
Wydad expressed gratitude for this international recognition. 'The Wydad Athletic Club extends its most sincere thanks to Madam Muriel Bowser for this prestigious tribute. It is a true mark of recognition for the club's glorious history and its major role in the great stages of Morocco's history,' the club wrote in its statement.
They added: 'This international recognition is a source of pride for all components of Wydad, and pushes us to continue to fly Morocco's colors high on the world stage.'
Philadelphia has also decided to mark this date in its official calendar. At the initiative of Cherelle Parker, mayor of the city, and in partnership with the local Moroccan community led by Hassan Samrhouni, also president of Wydad Washington, the city will now also celebrate May 8 as Wydad Day.
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This symbolic gesture comes as Wydad completes its participation in the 2025 Club World Cup. The team will play its final match against Asian champions Al Ain today at 8 p.m. Moroccan time at Audi Field in Washington. Already eliminated after defeats to Manchester City (0-2) and Juventus (1-4), the Reds aim to end their world tournament with a victory.
During the pre-match press conference, assistant coach Brahim Nakach underlined the importance of this final fixture: 'We are fully aware of the responsibility on our shoulders. We want to conclude our participation with a victory, God willing, that will honor us and Moroccan football.'
He also pointed out the competition's constraints: 'The Club World Cup comes at the end of the season, with closely scheduled matches and a high level of intensity. This will help us prepare well for the many challenges of next season, including the championship, the Throne Cup, and the CAF Cup.'
Regarding the squad, there is uncertainty about defender Abdelmounaim Boutouil's participation due to a thigh injury.
In economic terms, Al Ain boasts a more valuable squad, exemplified by Soufiane Rahimi, valued at €7 million, compared to 1.4 million for Wydad's Jamal Harkass, according to Transfermarkt.
The match will also evoke memories for nostalgic fans: Wydad and Al Ain faced off in 2015 during the Friendship Cup, a spectacular match that ended 3-3 with the Emiratis winning on penalties.
The game will have a personal dimension for several Moroccan players at Al Ain, including Nassim Chadli, a former Wydad player, Yahya Benkhalek, ex-FUS, and Houssain Rahimi. Tags: 2025 FIFA Club World CupMorocco and USWydad Athletic Club (WAC)