Spanish presenter questions why Spain fears Morocco over 2030 World Cup final
Matías Prats Jr. does not understand Spain’s concern about Morocco. In an interview published on Sunday, the sports presenter faulted Madrid for assuming the 2030 World Cup final was already secured while Rabat was making its case.
Asked by El Español, the Mediaset journalist questions Morocco’s influence, its relations with Donald Trump and the fear that Spain could lose the final. He is calling on the government to provide more information about its dealings with Rabat.
On Bladi.net : Casablanca does not have the final yet, but it is already suspected of having negotiated it
His concern comes amid a battle already under way between the two co-hosts. Opposite Madrid’s Santiago-Bernabéu, Morocco is counting on the future Grand Stade Hassan II, under construction in the province of Benslimane. With a planned capacity of 115,000, the stadium is one of the main arguments in Morocco’s bid to host the tournament’s final match.
The decision has yet to be made. In September, after Fouzi Lekjaa announced that Benslimane would host the final, FIFA said it would decide in due course. Morocco’s confidence contrasts with the doubts Prats is now expressing, despite the Spanish federation’s optimism.
He faults Spain for waiting
The presenter acknowledges that Rabat is making an effective case. By contrast, he accuses Spanish officials of letting a year go by without sufficiently promoting their bid. In his view, Spain treated the final as a given instead of trying to win it.
He also attributes Morocco’s advantage to its ties with Gianni Infantino, whom he believes is interested in the kingdom’s support for his re-election. Those ties had already fueled suspicions of a deal over the final. FIFA had denied making any promise to Morocco in exchange for political support.
On Bladi.net : Infantino Crisis: Could Morocco Lose the 2030 World Cup Final?
Prats even considers Spain withdrawing if another country gets the final. He acknowledges, however, that the agreements signed and commitments made mean Spain cannot simply leave the joint organization.
His anger is also directed at Morocco, the co-host: while praising Portugal, he accuses Rabat of using unfair tactics with FIFA. His main message to Spanish officials is to champion their own strengths and stop waiting for a favorable decision.
