While some Spanish stakeholders appeared to consider the final of the 2030 World Cup as a foregone conclusion for Madrid, Iberian media are now acknowledging that Morocco is actively positioning itself to host the ultimate match of the tournament in Casablanca. Initially, the notion seemed almost self-evident in Spain: the final of the 2030 World Cup was expected to naturally return to Madrid, bolstered by the renovated Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, a rich footballing history, and a significant historical influence within European football. However, this certainty is beginning to show signs of cracking.
A recent article from the Spanish media outlet Vox Populi recognizes that Morocco is launching a vigorous campaign to host the final of the 2030 World Cup on its territory. The publication notes that despite the official joint candidacy of Morocco, Spain, and Portugal, FIFA has yet to make an official determination regarding the location of the final. According to Vox Populi, Rabat has been intensifying its efforts for several months, engaging with stakeholders involved in this matter to advocate for Casablanca's bid. The objective is clear: to transform the future Grand Stade Hassan II into the venue for the world's most significant sporting event.
With a projected capacity of nearly 115,000 seats, this infrastructure, set to be established near Casablanca in Benslimane, would far exceed the Santiago Bernabéu, which has a capacity of around 90,000 seats post-renovation. However, beyond the mere size of the stadium, Vox Populi reminds us that FIFA also evaluates broader criteria: security, logistics, international connectivity, media accommodations, hotel capacities, and the symbolic importance of the host city.
On several of these criteria, Morocco possesses compelling arguments. Casablanca is home to the Kingdom's primary air hub through Mohammed V International Airport, while investments in transport infrastructure, rail networks, roads, and tourist facilities are accelerating significantly. The tone of the Spanish media reflects a growing sense of unease within Iberian sports circles. It cites Rafael Louzan, president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation, who recently urged the Spanish government to become more involved in organizing the tournament, suggesting that Madrid needs to enhance its mobilization.
Moreover, Vox Populi suggests that many figures within Spanish football privately acknowledge that Morocco presents a very serious challenge for hosting the final. The media outlet even mentions rising concerns regarding Rabat's increasing influence across sporting, economic, and diplomatic spheres. The Vox Populi article also delves into more speculative territory by discussing the relationship between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and former U.S. President Donald Trump, as well as the growing ties between Rabat and Washington.
However, one reality is becoming increasingly clear: Morocco is not content to merely be a co-organizer of the 2030 World Cup. By making substantial investments in its infrastructure and openly displaying its ambitions, the Kingdom aims to play a central role in this historic edition of the tournament, which is set to be held across three continents.
As reported by fr.hespress.com.
