FIFA has described claims that its president Gianni Infantino promised the 2030 World Cup final to Morocco as false and misleading. The international governing body stated that no decision has been taken on the venue for the tournament's final match and an announcement will be made when appropriate.
The controversy followed a report by British newspaper The Times stating Infantino offered Morocco the host role for the final to strengthen political support inside FIFA ahead of future elections. FIFA responded forcefully to the accusations during a high-level meeting held in Rabat, stating that no agreement exists regarding the final match venue and that claims to the contrary lack foundation.
The 2030 World Cup will be co-hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, while three opening matches will be played in South American countries to mark the centennial of the competition. Given the size of the tournament, selecting the venue for the final has become one of the most sensitive parts of the project.
Venues and federations
Morocco aims to host the final match at the planned Hassan II Stadium in Casablanca, a venue designed to become one of the most important sports facilities in the world. Spain maintains its bid for the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid as the venue for the decisive game.
The dispute comes during a sensitive period for Infantino, who faces criticism over FIFA commercial management following the withdrawal of a project to sell stakes in World Cup commercial rights. Some federations and football officials have questioned his leadership amid the commercial discussions.
Speculation about an agreement with Morocco grew because of the close relationship between Infantino, African football, and Moroccan authorities. Both FIFA and representatives from the North African nation have publicly rejected the accusations.
Selection process status
The Royal Spanish Football Federation stated it has no knowledge of any formal promise to grant the final to Casablanca. The Spanish federation expressed confidence that the selection process will follow sporting and organizational criteria.
The debate continues to fuel rivalry between Madrid and Casablanca for the 2030 World Cup final. Both host cities have put forward ambitious projects and consider themselves qualified to receive the match.
FIFA repeated that no official decision has been made about the location of the final match. The organization said the process remains open and an announcement will take place when a final resolution is reached.
