Casablanca's Ambitious Plans for the 2030 World Cup
As the 2030 FIFA World Cup approaches, Casablanca is intensifying its efforts to modernize its sports infrastructure, with significant investments earmarked for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of several iconic stadiums in the city. A minimum of five venues, including the Moulay Rachid, Tessema, Larbi Zaouli, Larbi Benbarek (commonly known as the Philip Stadium), and Roches-Noires, are set to undergo substantial renovations. According to local government sources, the Philip Stadium is currently the only site where construction work has commenced, with two other stadiums, Larbi Zaouli and Tessema, expected to start soon, while plans for the other venues are gradually moving forward.
The modernization of these facilities aims to align them with international standards, ensuring optimal conditions for hosting competitions, accommodating teams, spectators, and media, while prioritizing high levels of safety, accessibility, comfort, and technical performance as the global event draws near.
Transformations at Philip Stadium and Future Plans
At the Philip Stadium, the planned renovations primarily involve reconfiguring the seating areas to enhance safety for supporters, addressing concerns about potential fall hazards from the current standing areas at the top of the stands. The stadium, which has not been used since its reconstruction nearly three decades ago, will undergo a thorough assessment of its infrastructure before rehabilitation begins. This venue, located in the Sidi Belyout neighborhood, has a rich history, having opened to the public between 1919 and 1920 and hosting numerous significant sporting events over the years.
Meanwhile, plans for the Tessema Stadium include complete reconstruction to accommodate 30,000 spectators. The initial phase involves relocating scrap metal from the nearby Salmia area and demolishing existing structures to make way for a modern facility that meets contemporary standards for comfort, safety, and aesthetics. Recent contracts for demolition and general earthworks are valued at approximately 36.44 million dirhams (MAD) and are currently ongoing, following an architectural competition that awarded the contract to architect Krim Youness from My Group Architecture for 675.80 million MAD. The new stadium will cover 6.62 hectares and will incorporate modern technologies, such as LED lighting systems and facilities for improved spectator experiences.
Further developments at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium will primarily focus on upgrading the playing field, with limited rehabilitation contracts currently in place. As the city continues to prepare for the World Cup, these extensive infrastructural changes are set to revitalize Casablanca's sports landscape and enhance its capacity to host international events.
As reported by medias24.com.
