The ongoing political conflict in Spain surrounding Morocco's role in the 2030 World Cup could have significant financial repercussions for Spanish companies. Although Rabat has not yet enacted any sanctions, the possibility of reevaluating future contracts has been openly mentioned, raising concerns among business leaders in Spain.
This issue has gained momentum as political parties Vox and Sumar are advocating against Morocco's participation in the upcoming World Cup. An article by El Español published on August 20, highlights the substantial stakes for Spanish businesses, which may stand to lose considerably if the political standoff escalates and spills over into economic repercussions.
The Spanish daily references information released on August 11 by Assahifa, which cites Moroccan government sources asserting that no existing contracts with Spanish firms have been altered. However, these sources caution that should tensions escalate, "anything is possible," suggesting that Morocco may reconsider its agreements and future contracts based on its national interests.
This warning comes at a time when Madrid is keen to leverage Moroccan investments related to the 2030 World Cup. As of February 2025, the Spanish government identified over 350 Spanish companies operating in Morocco, positioning the World Cup as a significant opportunity in sectors such as infrastructure, transportation, technology, and tourism.
Major Financial Interests at Stake
Two key projects exemplify the vast sums involved in this situation. CAF has secured the contract for ONCF's intercity trains, backed by Spanish financing of €754.3 million for the purchase of 40 trains, with the aim of enhancing Morocco's railway network in anticipation of the World Cup in 2030. Meanwhile, Acciona, in collaboration with Green of Africa and Afriquia Gaz, is leading the Casablanca desalination project, which represents an investment of approximately €613 million. Collectively, these two initiatives account for over €1.36 billion in projects that directly involve Spanish enterprises.
Moreover, Spain's economic relations with Morocco extend far beyond these projects. Spain is Morocco's largest trading partner, with bilateral trade exceeding €22.5 billion annually and a trade surplus of over €3 billion favoring Madrid. Spanish exports to Morocco have also seen growth, rising nearly 6% in 2024. Therefore, while there is currently no formal announcement of sanctions or governmental decisions from Morocco, the message is unequivocal: as certain factions of the Spanish political landscape aim to exert pressure on Rabat through the World Cup, Morocco possesses its own leverage—namely, the hundreds of Spanish firms that depend on its markets.
As reported by bladi.net.
