Morocco Accelerates Infrastructure Overhaul Ahead of 2030 World Cup

At the day organized on Tuesday in Rabat by the Mohammadia School of Engineers, Mouad Hajji, representative of Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) who was unable to attend, stressed the importance of engineering in the success of the 2030 World Cup. "It is not just about hosting football matches, but about rethinking the way we organize, build and manage our infrastructure. The 2030 World Cup is an accelerator of transformation: it forces us to modernize our transport networks, to design smart stadiums and to optimize our urban facilities to offer an unprecedented experience to supporters and citizens. This project is a showcase of our engineering know-how and a lever for the future," he said.

The upgrading of the stadiums is one of the major ongoing projects. The work has been entrusted to the National Company for the Realization and Management of Sports Facilities (Sonarges). A total of ten stadiums will be renovated. "The challenge is not just to expand, but to make these stadiums alive, capable of welcoming the public outside of matches and generating their own activity," explains Imane Bensayeh, an architect involved in the project. The environmental aspect has not been overlooked in the modernization of the stadiums: "We have designed low-carbon infrastructures that optimize energy consumption and minimize waste". The Grand Stade Hassan II, under construction in Casablanca, will be LEED Gold certified, an environmental label.

To allow spectators to live unique moments, each stadium will be equipped with public Wi-Fi, IPTV networks, high-definition sound systems and giant LED screens. Surveillance cameras, as well as an intelligent access control system, will also be installed to strengthen security and ensure fluidity at the entrances. "We are building the infrastructure of a future Morocco, where modernization goes beyond the framework of sport," said Bensayeh.

In terms of rail infrastructure, an ambitious network extension project is planned to facilitate visitors’ traffic between the different cities. The National Railway Office (ONCF) "is working on the extension of the High Speed Line (LGV) between Kenitra and Marrakech, which will allow to connect the north to the south in record time. By 2030, our goal is to have a fully optimized network, with modernized stations and strengthened connections to urban transport. Fluidity of movement will be a key factor in the success of the World Cup," said Baderddine Bertoul, ONCF representative. RER, tramway and electric buses are also planned in Casablanca and Marrakech.

Mohamed Rhachi, vice-president of the Mohammed V University and interim director of ENSIAS, insists on the need for a successful digital transition to accompany this boom "The digital Morocco is a must to succeed the 2030 milestone. Optimizing the flow of spectators, real-