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Spain and Morocco vie to host 2030 World Cup final A spirited contest is unfolding between Spain and Morocco over which nation will host the 2030 FIFA World Cup final. While Spain is pushing for the match to be held on its soil, Morocco is championing its new Grand Stade Hassan II in Casablanca as the ideal venue. Rafael Louzán, a key figure in the Spanish Football Federation, has firmly stated that it would be "inexplicable" if the final were not awarded to Spain. He emphasised that Spain represents "55% of the weight of the candidature," highlighting Madrid's Santiago Bernabéu and Barcelona's Camp Nou as "exceptional" stadiums. Despite the firm stance, Louzán also acknowledged Morocco's "remarkable evolution" in developing its football infrastructure. In response, Moroccan Football Federation President Fouzi Lekjaa has dismissed Spain's assertions. He previously labelled reports suggesting Real Madrid President Florentino Pérez had secured the final for the Bernabéu as "speculative media," clarifying that no decisions have been made. "These choices will be discussed between the three host countries and FIFA," Lekjaa stated. The debate continues to play out in the public sphere. A 2024 FIFA evaluation identified the Grand Stade Hassan II as a leading contender, citing its planned 115,000-seat capacity, which "comfortably exceeds the minimum requirement." Early in 2025, Louzán travelled to Morocco to advocate for Madrid, vowing he "will not let Madrid miss this opportunity." Lekjaa countered by saying the final will be held in "the largest stadium ready for the 2030 World Cup." Currently under construction, the Grand Stade Hassan II is being purpose-built for the tournament's climax. Architect Tarik Oualalou confirmed the venue was "designed, made for" the 2030 final. Its projected capacity of 115,000 surpasses both the Bernabéu's 78,000 and Camp Nou's 105,000 seats. Morocco is investing over 5 billion dirhams (approximately €500 million) into the new stadium and upgrading six other venues to meet FIFA standards by 2028. For Moroccan officials, securing the final for Africa is a major priority. Lekjaa declared that Morocco is now "a host for major competitions... not a slogan, it’s a reality being built on the ground." FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed hope that the 2030 tournament will "bring the two continents even closer together." Experts suggest that the sheer scale and modern design of the Hassan II stadium make it a strong and practical candidate. In contrast, the Bernabéu has a smaller capacity, and Camp Nou requires significant renovations. Ultimately, the final decision on the venue will be made jointly by Spain, Portugal, Morocco, and FIFA.
