World Cup 2030: The verdict is getting clearer
Which trio will win? December 11 will be decisive in determining the host countries for the 2030 World Cup. On Sunday December 1, after a series of evaluations and on-site inspection visits, FIFA published reports detailing the strengths and weaknesses of the various bids, and the joint bid by Morocco, Spain, and Portugal has every chance of success. These documents will be submitted for approval to the Extraordinary FIFA Congress, to be held by videoconference on December 11.
■ The mega-attribute of geopolitical stability
Morocco, Spain, and Portugal share a long tradition of collaboration, and geopolitical tensions, while they have existed, have been effectively managed through diplomatic mechanisms and a common desire to ensure the success of this World Cup. In comparison, although Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay have also shown a willingness to cooperate, the complex historical relationships between these countries can pose challenges in the implementation of the World Cup. Diplomatic tensions between certain players could make the organization of the event more difficult.
■ Lowest budget
The Spain, Morocco, and Portugal bid is proposing a lower budget than the FIFA standard, thanks to savings on items such as security and technical services. Expected revenues, notably from media rights and ticket sales, should exceed forecasts by 20% compared with previous editions. The bid benefits from favorable conditions, including advantageous time zones and strong local demand.
■ The High Speed Line’s winning edge
The bid offers a robust transport infrastructure, with international airports in key cities such as Barcelona, Casablanca, and Lisbon. Efficient intercity connections, notably via high-speed trains, will facilitate travel during the competition. Public transport systems in the major host cities will ensure fluid mobility between the various venues.
■ Bedding capacity beyond expectations
The proposed accommodation in the 17 host cities largely meets FIFA’s minimum requirements in terms of quantity and quality. However, additional hotels will be needed to accommodate the general public during popular matches. A further assessment of the new hotel constructions
will be required to ensure that they comply with FIFA standards.
-International broadcasting, a facility up to standard
Two sites have been proposed to host the International Broadcast Center (IBC): the Casablanca International Fair and the Recinto Ferial Casa de Campo in Madrid. Both sites meet the necessary requirements and have formally confirmed their commitment to hosting the center by signing a service provision contract.
■ Ultra-security, a tried-and-tested mechanism
The three countries have a solid legislative framework for security and the fight against terrorism, with cross-border cooperation mechanisms already in place. Additional measures will be put in place to guarantee security during the competition, notably through enhanced information exchange between police authorities o
■ KHealth, medicine and anti-doping: a solid system
Medical infrastructure is deemed adequate to meet the needs of the World Cup, with solid health systems and sufficient accommodation capacity. No major health threats have been identified, and the fight against doping will comply with the requirements of the World Anti-Doping Agency, guaranteeing a healthy environment for competitors.
■ Stadiums: the great challenge of flexibility
The 20 proposed stadiums spread across Morocco, Portugal, and Spain offer considerable flexibility, exceeding FIFA’s minimum requirements. Some stadiums need to be built or renovated, but the projects are well advanced and the detailed plans reduce the risks. These modern, iconic stadiums, including sites undergoing renovation, will guarantee a top-quality World Cup.
Infrastructure to measure up to the event
THE infrastructure proposed by the Morocco-Spain-Portugal bid are among the most modern and diversified, offering an exceptional experience for both teams and spectators. Spain and Portugal boast ultra-modern stadiums such as the Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid, the Camp Nou in Barcelona, as well as the Lisbon and Porto stadiums, which are among the most renowned on the continent. Morocco, for its part, has invested in massive renovations, with stadiums such as the Mohammed V sports complex in Casablanca and the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium in Rabat, guaranteeing an unparalleled experience for players and spectators alike.
Radia LAHLOU
