A report in The Times says a direct dispute is building between Morocco and Spain over which country will host the final of the 2030 World Cup. Most of the tournament’s other hosting arrangements, shared by Morocco, Spain and Portugal, are already largely settled, but the final has become the main point of tension.
According to sources close to FIFA, the race is currently seen as 50-50, and no final decision has been made on the sensitive issue. Morocco is pushing to stage the final at the new Hassan II Stadium in Casablanca, which is under construction and is planned to seat 115,000 spectators. If completed as planned, it would be the largest football stadium in the world.
Moroccan officials are also stressing the symbolic value of bringing a World Cup final back to Africa for the first time since South Africa hosted the tournament in 2010. Spain, meanwhile, wants the renovated Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid to host the match, arguing that its global prestige and rich history make it the natural venue.
The Spanish case also relies on Madrid’s developed infrastructure and Spain’s proven record in staging major international sporting events. The decision now rests with FIFA, which will have to settle the rivalry over one of the most coveted matches in world football.
