Spain claims right to 2030 World Cup final amid rival bid from Morocco
By NawazGohar : The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has doubled down on its claim to host the final of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, setting the stage for a friendly yet firm dispute with co-hosts Morocco.
Speaking at an event organized by the Madrid Sports Press Association, RFEF President Rafael Lozano asserted that Spain would be the primary venue for the tournament’s climax. “Spain has proven its organizational capacity over many years. It will lead the 2030 World Cup, and the final will be held here,” Lozano stated, dismissing the possibility of the final being moved to North Africa.
Morocco, which is co-hosting the tournament alongside Spain and Portugal, has emerged as a formidable rival for the hosting rights of the final. The Kingdom is currently constructing the Grand Stade Hassan II in Casablanca, a massive facility designed to accommodate 115,000 spectators.
Fouzi Lekjaa, President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), has previously expressed his ambition to see the final played in Casablanca, potentially featuring a dream match-up between Morocco and Spain. The stadium is expected to be completed by late 2028.
In his remarks, Lozano subtly highlighted organizational challenges elsewhere, referencing recent chaotic scenes during a final between Senegal and Morocco earlier this month as a point of contrast to Spain’s stable infrastructure.
Despite the public back-and-forth between the federation chiefs, FIFA, the FRMF, and the Portuguese Football Federation have remained tight-lipped. In a previous statement to Reuters, FIFA clarified that it is “premature” to decide the venue for the 2030 final, as the official selection process remains ongoing.
The 2030 edition will be a unique “centenary” tournament. While the bulk of the games will be held in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, the opening matches will take place in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay to commemorate 100 years since the first World Cup in South America.
