Ask Onix
Spain asserts right to host 2030 World Cup final
Rafael Louzan, president of the Spanish Football Federation, declared Spain will stage the 2030 men's World Cup final, emphasizing the country's long-standing ability to organize major events.
Co-hosting arrangement and opening matches
The 2030 tournament will be jointly hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. To commemorate the competition's centennial, the first three matches will take place in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay.
Uruguay, the host and winner of the inaugural 1930 World Cup, will be joined by Argentina, the 1930 runners-up, and Paraguay, home to the South American football confederation, CONMEBOL.
Competing bids for the final
While Morocco has publicly expressed interest in hosting the final at the Grand Stade Hassan II in Casablanca-a 115,000-capacity venue set to open in 2028-Louzan insisted Spain's experience gives it the edge.
"Spain has proven its organizational capacity over many years," he stated at an event organized by the Madrid Sports Press Association. "It will lead the 2030 World Cup, and the final will be held here."
Real Madrid's Santiago Bernabéu and Barcelona's Camp Nou are considered the top contenders to stage the match, though Louzan did not specify a preferred venue.
Recent controversies raise questions
Louzan referenced the chaotic scenes at this month's Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in Rabat, where Morocco's hosting was marred by pitch invasions and refereeing disputes.
Senegal's coach, Pape Thiaw, withdrew his team from the field after a late penalty was awarded to Morocco following a VAR review. The decision followed an earlier disallowed goal for Senegal in stoppage time, with the match tied 0-0. After a 17-minute delay, Senegal ultimately won 1-0 in extra time.
"Morocco is undergoing a transformation with magnificent stadiums," Louzan acknowledged. "We must recognize what has been done well. But the AFCON final showed scenes that damage football's global image."
FIFA's stance and next steps
FIFA has not yet confirmed the final's location, stating last year that such decisions are typically made two years before the tournament. The governing body, along with the Portuguese and Moroccan football federations, has been contacted for comment but has not responded.
Spain has proposed 11 stadiums for the event, while Morocco plans to use six and Portugal three.
