The FIFA Council has officially designated Morocco, Spain, and Portugal as co-hosts of the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The announcement was made on Wednesday, December 11, during an extraordinary FIFA congress held via videoconference. This landmark decision marks a historic moment not just for Moroccan football but for the entire Arab and African sporting community.
The joint Morocco-Iberia bid impressed FIFA with its robust preparation, combining cutting-edge infrastructure, seamless connectivity, and a shared commitment to sustainability. This marks the first time an African nation will co-host the World Cup alongside European neighbors, establishing a bridge across continents and cultures.
In his remarks, Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), highlighted the historical significance of this collaboration: “This is a rare and monumental occasion for our three nations to unite as hosts of the 2030 World Cup. It reflects FIFA’s trust in Morocco’s capacity to deliver on such a grand stage, thanks to the forward-thinking vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. This event will be a catalyst for social, economic, and human development.”
Spanish and Portuguese football officials also celebrated the partnership, emphasizing its alignment with FIFA’s values of diversity, inclusion, and cooperation.
While FIFA praised the bid’s strengths, it urged the three nations to focus on enhancing logistical and hospitality frameworks to ensure an unparalleled experience for players, fans, and stakeholders. With a decade to prepare, the collaboration is set to establish a new benchmark in global sporting events.
The decision to award the 2030 World Cup to Morocco, Spain, and Portugal represents a culmination of years of strategic planning and reflects King Mohammed VI’s long-term vision for elevating sports in Morocco. The tournament is expected to boost not only football in the region but also create enduring socio-economic opportunities.
This milestone sets the stage for a World Cup that will go down in history as a celebration of unity, innovation, and cross-continental collaboration.
