Morocco Races to Upgrade Infrastructure for 2030 World Cup

Modernization of sports and urban infrastructure, development of transport infrastructure and expansion of airport infrastructure. These are the three challenges that Morocco must meet before hosting the 2030 World Cup. Regarding the modernization of sports and urban infrastructure, Fouzi Lekjaa informs the employers’ association that Morocco plans to renovate stadiums in Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech, Fez, Tangier and Agadir, as well as create 32 training camps across the country, reports Finances News Hebdo. Training grounds meeting international standards and quality hotel infrastructure, ensuring a balanced distribution of economic benefits throughout the territory, will therefore be provided. "These projects will help revitalize certain often marginalized regions, while meeting FIFA’s requirements," explains Lekjaa.

Regarding the development of transport infrastructure, several major projects including the high-speed line (LGV) connecting Kenitra to Marrakech, as well as the RER links to Mohammed V airport, are planned. These projects, aimed at improving mobility and strengthening connectivity between Morocco’s main cities, will bring about a large-scale urban transformation. They benefit from the support of the banking sector. Regarding the expansion of airport infrastructure, the expansion of the airports in Marrakech, Tangier, Fez and Rabat is planned. A new airport, intended to become a strategic hub in line with the expansion of the Royal Air Maroc (RAM) fleet, which aims to reach 200 aircraft by 2035, will be built in Casablanca.

Just as the Qatar-Morocco World Cup generated a net turnover of $15 billion for FIFA, the 2030 edition should be lucrative. According to the minister, the direct and indirect economic benefits for Morocco will amount to several billion dollars, and will positively impact key sectors such as tourism, hospitality, transportation and services. The event will also provide exceptional global visibility for the country. "After the 2026 World Cup, all the major football events will feature the logo of Morocco, which will be an invaluable asset for our nation," he adds. To meet the challenges, Lekjaa calls for a multi-sectoral mobilization. He also urges Moroccan companies to actively participate in the realization of the projects. "It is crucial that our companies are ready to meet the requirements and seize these opportunities," he specifies, also announcing the organization of information sessions to detail the needs and schedules.