The Bernabéu is close to hosting the 2030 World Cup final, and Morocco is watching closely

The latest global sports reports indicate a tangible shift in FIFA's compass regarding the stadium that will host the 2030 World Cup final, with the Santiago Bernabéu stadium in the Spanish capital, Madrid, now the most likely candidate to win this historic honor, thus reducing the hopes of Morocco, which had aspired to host this major global event through its huge project in Casablanca.

The Bernabeu steals the spotlight from Casablanca

According to sources close to the joint bid, the strong relationship between FIFA and Real Madrid, coupled with the historic status of the Santiago Bernabéu stadium, tipped the scales in favor of the Spanish side. This comes as Morocco presented an ambitious project to build the "Grand Stadium of Casablanca" in Benslimane, with a target capacity of 115,000 spectators, aiming to make it the largest in the world, in an effort to convince FIFA of Africa's right to host the final.

Context of the joint file and the centenary

This competition comes in the context of the joint bid by Morocco, Spain, and Portugal to host the 2030 World Cup, an exceptional edition that will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the first World Cup. Although the opening matches will be held in South America (Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay) as a tribute to history, the main focus of the tournament will be on the three main host nations. The venue for the final has been a key point of contention, with Spain seeking to recapture the glory of the 1982 World Cup, while Morocco aspires to crown its footballing renaissance with an unprecedented event for the Arab world and Africa.

Strengths of the Spanish side

The Spanish bid to promote the Santiago Bernabéu stadium relies on several key pillars that have made it top the FIFA list:

• Immediate readiness: The stadium underwent a comprehensive and costly renovation process that transformed it into a technical architectural masterpiece ready for immediate use, unlike the Moroccan project which is still in the planning and construction phase.
• Infrastructure and Logistics: Madrid has a network of transportation, hotels and airports with enormous capacity, proven in previous major events.
• The historical factor: FIFA's desire to link the tournament's prestige with an iconic stadium that many consider the "temple of football" in Europe.

Expected impact of the decision

If FIFA officially approves the Bernabéu as the venue for the final, this does not diminish Morocco's role. Morocco is expected to host other crucial matches, potentially including one of the semi-finals, as well as the official opening ceremony of the tournament (excluding the centenary matches). This distribution will ensure a diplomatic balance among the three partners and generate significant economic and tourism benefits for all parties. The 2030 World Cup remains a golden opportunity to enhance the Kingdom of Morocco's sports infrastructure and connect the African and European continents with a bridge of football passion, regardless of where the final whistle blows.