Morocco Makes Push to Host 2030 FIFA World Cup Final to Spain's Dismay
By Jeremiah Santos
(Photo : Julian Finney/Getty Images) LUSAIL CITY, QATAR - A giant FIFA World Cup trophy is seen prior to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Final match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium on December 18, 2022 in Lusail City, Qatar.
One day after the collaborative bid from Spain, Portugal, and Morocco to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup was awarded, between Spain and Morocco regarding the location of the tournament's final match.
Spain's Sports Minister Miquel Iceta said during an interview with Onda Cero radio on Thursday, October 5, that while it's premature to make assumptions, he expects that the final would take place in Spain.
The country boasts of the largest stadium in Europe, FC Barcelona's Camp Nou, which can hold up to 105,000 people after its renovation will be completed in 2025-26.
Real Madrid's Santiago Bernabeu Stadium is also the third largest stadium on the continent, with a capacity of over 80,000, and that will host the final due to being located in the country's capital.
However, Fouzi Lekjaa, the head of Morocco's football federation, for the final to be hosted in Casablanca.
"We hope to live an extraordinary final that honours the whole continent and the young generation in a stadium in Casablanca that will be extraordinary and wonderful," Kekjaa said.
Argentina wants to host more matches
Argentina, one of the three South American countries to host an opening match to commemorate the tournament's 100th anniversary, entered the discussions.
Government officials and the Argentine Football Association have expressed their intention to secure more matches than just the single opening match initially allocated to them.
