UEFA Backs Spain-Portugal-Ukraine Bid for 2030 World Cup, Sidelining Morocco

No more joint Spain-Portugal-Morocco candidacy for the 2030 World Cup? The tripartite candidacy Spain-Portugal-Ukraine is now the one being discussed, reports the Arabic-language daily Assabah. Moreover, it receives the support of a coordination between European countries and lobbies within the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA). Everything therefore suggests that Europe is de facto excluding Morocco, which had nevertheless proposed a joint candidacy. After examining the proposal at a high level by the general staffs of Spain and Portugal, the file did not progress.

Europe will have to face competition. Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay are also presenting a joint candidacy. Egypt, Greece and Saudi Arabia also wish to launch themselves together into the competition. "These countries, which I have visited, are magnificent, but the decision on the organization rests with the FIFA Council," said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. His wish, he will say, is that there be many candidates. "If there are many candidates, the challenge will be great and beneficial for world football. May the best win," he added.