Morocco Gears Up for Central Role in 2030 World Cup Co-Hosting

Rabat will become the nerve center of operations. A FIFA team of 300 employees will be based there to oversee all logistical and organizational aspects, from stadium preparation to the security of teams and supporters. Casablanca will play an equally crucial role by becoming the television transmission center, broadcasting the World Cup matches to all corners of the globe.

The cost of the organization, estimated at $15 billion, will be borne by FIFA. Lekjaa was keen to emphasize the complexity of such an undertaking: "Although some may consider organizing a football match to be simple, the preparation of a single match requires considerable effort."

Exceptional measures have been taken to facilitate the organization. Moroccan legislation has been amended to exempt all imported equipment, from balls to cars to computers, from taxes.

The distribution of matches between Morocco, Spain and Portugal will be decided by 2027. Lekjaa expressed his confidence in the central role that Morocco will play in this trio and in the significant number of key matches that the Kingdom will host.

The 2030 World Cup represents an exceptional opportunity for Morocco. It will allow the country’s infrastructure and cultural wealth to be highlighted, thus contributing to its economic and social development, he said.

In this perspective, large-scale infrastructure projects are underway, including the extension of high-speed rail lines to Marrakech and Agadir and the expansion of the country’s main airports. These projects are part of a long-term vision, initiated under the reign of King Mohammed VI, aimed at a complete economic and social renaissance, Lekjaa promises.

Morocco is not limited to the 2030 World Cup. The country aims to host other major international competitions, such as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2028 Futsal World Cup. These sporting events help strengthen Morocco’s position as a regional and international sports hub.

The existing stadiums will be modernized to meet international standards, with the exception of Casablanca, which will see the construction of the new "Hassan II" stadium. The latter will become a major asset for the city and its iconic clubs, Raja and Wydad.

Finally, Lekjaa emphasized the importance of an equitable distribution of the economic benefits. The bases of the participating teams will be distributed in 32 Moroccan cities, reflecting Morocco’s commitment to balanced and decentralized development.