Spain has firmly dismissed rumors regarding the potential hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup final in Morocco. Spanish Sports Minister Milagros Tolón stated unequivocally on the Spanish radio station Cadena Ser, "We will continue to work towards this goal because we want – and it must be so – that the World Cup final takes place in Spain." This statement comes in response to a now-refuted report from the British newspaper The Times, which alleged that the controversial FIFA President Gianni Infantino had promised Morocco the 2030 final in exchange for support in his reelection bid scheduled for March 2027.
"I am convinced that FIFA will choose Spain as the venue for the final," Tolón emphasized during her interview. She highlighted Spain's strong position in international football, being the reigning champion in both men's and women's categories, which adds significant weight to their claim. Furthermore, she pointed out that Spain boasts extensive experience in organizing major sporting and other events, along with modern infrastructure and a safe environment for such high-profile occasions. The final could potentially be held at either the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium of Real Madrid or the renowned Camp Nou of FC Barcelona.
Major Host Nations for 2030 World Cup
The Times reported that Infantino proposed to host the final at the Hassan II Stadium in Casablanca, which is currently under construction and has a seating capacity of 115,000. This move would be seen as a slight to Spain and Europe, which have recently been critical of Infantino following a controversial and later discarded investment deal. Spain, along with Portugal and Morocco, is set to co-host the 2030 World Cup, with opening matches planned in South American countries Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay as well.
The FIFA has since denied the claims made by the media, stating, "It is incorrect and misleading to assert that the FIFA President made any promises regarding the hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2030 final. A decision will be made by FIFA in due course," according to a statement issued in response to inquiries.
As reported by tagesspiegel.de.