In today's football landscape, being the best is no longer sufficient. While Rodri lifted the World Cup trophy for Spain, the tides are shifting ominously, suggesting that it may eventually end up in the hands of Morocco's King Mohammed VI. This scenario echoes the contentious aftermath of the Africa Cup, where Senegal emerged victorious on the field, only for FIFA to controversially award the title to Morocco following a disgraceful final, despite Morocco being the host nation.
The 2030 World Cup is poised to be the first tournament where non-sporting interests overshadow every decision made. In previous years, figures like Sepp Blatter and Michel Platini manipulated the bidding process through vote-buying among federations from developing countries. However, with geopolitics now taking center stage and global leaders recognizing the lucrative potential of football, the rules have transformed dramatically. For instance, a player sent off in a match might find their suspension lifted with a simple phone call from influential figures like Donald Trump.
Morocco has strategically capitalized on Spain's submissive stance regarding Ceuta, further tightening the screws by announcing that FIFA has already promised the World Cup final to Casablanca. This declaration from the president of the Moroccan football federation has gone unanswered by a Spanish government that seems preoccupied with managing the influx of asylum seekers fleeing a country unable to guarantee their welfare, yet capable of ensuring the security necessary for hosting a World Cup that could redefine its territorial integrity and the rights of its citizens in Ceuta.
With FIFA and UEFA embroiled in a clear economic conflict and Trump advocating for the privatization of major football competitions, Spain appears to be the ultimate outsider in this unfolding drama. The vague response from FIFA, merely stating that a final decision has yet to be made, hints at the precarious position Spain finds itself in.
It becomes increasingly clear that the Iberian candidacy, which once seemed promising, might not be the one to emerge victorious. The triangle formed by Gianni Infantino, Donald Trump, and King Mohammed VI is already rehearsing laughter at the expense of Pedro Sánchez, the Prime Minister of Spain.
The critical question remains: if these developments are confirmed, what role will Spain play in a World Cup devoid of both the opening match and the final, especially given that the inaugural game will be held in a South American country?
As reported by diariodesevilla.es.
