Bernards Honors Morocco Team, Gives Key To Township During World Cup Stay

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Bernards Township formally recognized the Morocco National Football Team, approving a resolution that commemorates the team’s presence in the township during the FIFA World Cup 2026 and presenting a key to the township.

Mayor Ana Duarte McCarthy introduced a resolution at the Tuesday Township Committee meeting, saying the township was "very honored this evening to have with us very special guests on the occasion of recognizing team Morocco and team Brazil practicing and staying in our community for the FIFA World Cup 2026."

She said Morocco chose Pingry School "as your home away from home."

The resolution states that Morocco selected Bernards Township as part of its World Cup preparations, conducting training sessions at Pingry School and designating the township as a team-based camp training site.

It also states that the team’s presence gave residents "the unique opportunity to experience the excitement and spirit of the world's most celebrated sporting event while fostering cultural understanding and global connections."

Committee members spoke in support before the vote.

Committeeman Brett Hodges thanked Morrocco for choosing Bernards Township as their practice area for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

"To bring such prominence to our humble township is very exciting," said Hodges.

Committeewoman Jennifer Asay said hosting the teams was "a chance in a lifetime" for the township.

Deputy Mayor John Tompkins told the delegation that they "have just brought so much energy and spirit to the area."

Mohamed Ait Bihi, council general of the Kingdom of Morocco in New York, thanked the township for the recognition.

"On behalf of my country, the Kingdom of Morocco, I would like to extend our profound gratitude for this distinguished honor and for the gracious and amazing welcome extended to our national team," he said.

Ait Bihi said the team’s presence in Bernards Township reflected "the power of sport to bring people together."

He added that is also strengthens mutual understanding and inspires excellence, and also promotes the values of dialogue and understanding, "which my country believes in throughout the years."

"We are honored by this recognition and trust that it will further deepen the bonds of friendship between Morocco and this community," said Ait Bihi,

Later in the meeting, McCarthy introduced a separate resolution recognizing the Brazilian National Football Team. She said Brazil’s delegation was not present because "Brazil has flown to Miami."

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