The President of La Liga, Javier Tebas, remains committed to expanding Spanish football internationally, with Morocco now emerging as a potential venue. Following the unsuccessful attempts to host matches in the United States, Tebas is exploring a groundbreaking opportunity in North Africa, where there is a significant following for clubs like Real Madrid and Barcelona.
In a strategic pivot towards international expansion, La Liga is considering the possibility of holding official Primera División matches in Morocco. The country’s proximity to Spain, coupled with its passionate football fanbase, presents logistical advantages that cannot be overlooked. In statements to MAP, Tebas remarked, “Given the number of fans who follow La Liga in Morocco, it would be easier to play here, especially due to the minimal logistical challenges involved.” He even suggested a specific venue, stating, “We could consider a match at the new stadium in Casablanca. Why not?”
This shift towards Morocco comes on the heels of legal and internal setbacks stemming from La Liga's previous attempts to stage matches in North America. Tebas faced significant challenges after a ruling deemed the players' protests against a game in Miami as legal, rejecting his claim that the protests constituted an illegal strike. The controversial plan to host a match between Villarreal and Barcelona in Miami was ultimately scrapped due to player opposition and resistance from the RFEF. Following the ruling which validated a 15-second pause for freedom of expression during matches, Tebas is now seeking locations with fewer complications and improved logistics.
It is no coincidence that these discussions are taking place now, as Spain, Morocco, and Portugal have joined forces to co-host the 2030 World Cup. This collaborative project has strengthened the sports and political ties between the two nations, creating an ideal environment for La Liga to establish a physical presence in Morocco. Tebas is clear on his vision: “Expansion into the Middle East and North Africa is crucial. There is an incredible passion for La Liga from Iraq to Morocco. Our data indicates that we have more fans than the Premier League. Historically, Spain and Morocco have maintained a close and fluid relationship in sports, especially in football.”
While no official matches have been scheduled yet, the league is keen on playing in Morocco. This would mark a significant milestone and transform the Mediterranean into a bridge rather than a barrier for Spanish football. For Tebas, the ultimate goal is to enhance the commercial growth of the league after years of litigation and administrative challenges in Spain.
As reported by goal.com.
