Marrakech – Spanish media outlet Relevo has reported that Morocco has dramatically overshadowed Spain in the preparations for the 2030 World Cup joint bid.
With the complete bid book now submitted to FIFA, it has become evident that while Portugal has secured its desired role, Morocco has largely dictated the terms, leaving Spain, initially considered the strongest partner, with the least influence.
“Morocco has eaten Spain,” a direct source from the project stated without hesitation.
The report highlighted the ongoing tumultuous period facing Spanish football, including the scandal surrounding former RFEF president Luis Rubiales, months without a fully engaged president, police interventions, and controversies with the government.
Despite these challenges, the Spanish team working on the bid has persevered, although unable to assert its position against the strength of Morocco and its Royal Family, who have closely monitored each move to protect their interests.
According to Relevo, the countries initially agreed on 11 host cities for Spain, three for Portugal, and six for Morocco.
However, tensions arose when Spain attempted to add Valencia and Vigo as sub-venues during the final meeting in Agadir, a move strongly opposed by Morocco, with Portugal trying to ease the strained atmosphere.
The Spanish media outlet emphasized Morocco’s crucial role in the bidding process, suggesting that Spain and Portugal alone would have struggled to secure the 2030 World Cup.
Morocco’s involvement neutralized the African Confederation as a rival, and given Saudi Arabia’s likely hosting of the 2034 edition, it is plausible that Morocco’s participation significantly contributed to the success of the joint bid.
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Relevo also reported on the ongoing battle for the final match venue, with Casablanca’s Hassan II Stadium, aiming to be the world’s best with a capacity of 115,000, challenging Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu.
The Moroccan Royal Family has made no secret of their ambition to host the final.
While the official decision is not expected until at least 2027, Casablanca and the Bernabeu are seen as the main contenders for the final and opening match, with Lisbon and the new Camp Nou likely to host the semifinals.
This reporting comes amid previous claims by Spanish media, particularly Marca, that FIFA favors the Bernabeu for the 2030 World Cup final.
In June, Marca reported that FIFA had maintained confidence in Spain and a Bernabeu final despite the political crisis in Spanish football.
However, the Moroccan Football Federation has stressed that no final decisions have been made regarding the allocation of matches or geographical distribution of games, emphasizing that official updates will be communicated through designated channels.
