We have more than five years before the 2030 FIFA World Cup commences across three continents.
South America, Europe and Africa are the continents that have been allowed to host the 48-team tournament by the governing body of the World Football Association, FIFA.
In South America, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay are the host nations. Neighbors Portugal and Spain are the countries FIFA chose to host the tournament. In Africa, North African country Morocco will finally get the opportunity to show the world what they have after chasing to host the tournament since the early 1990s.
Preparations in Morocco are underway with many venues being renovated. Construction of new stadiums is underway!
Fouzi Lekjaa, 58, a senior Moroccan civil servant, has disclosed the plans Morocco has put in place for the organization of the much-anticipated tournament in 2030.
On Finance
“The first good news, and the most important limit, is that the Financing Plan is already completed”, Lekjaa said. An estimated $5 Billion is expected to be invested by Morocco. Many have wondered whether the country will survive with this huge sum of money but Lekjaa believes the country will not suffer and they are ready to prove their doubters wrong.
Infrastructure
“The regional capitals; Marrakech, Tangier and Rabat will have their airports expanded and refurbished for the tournament to enhance travelling.
The country plans to make Casa a real regional Hub, like that of Istanbul or Frankfurt”, Fouzi Lekjaa revealed.
Royal Air Maroc (RAM) has also signed a contract to increase the fleet to 200 aircraft.
“For the stadiums, those in Rabat and Tangier will be finalized in 2 months, before the AFCON. That means by October 2025, those two venues will be ready for use. As for others (Marrakech, Fes & Agadir), they will benefit from another renovation/expansion. In addition, the future largest stadium in the world, next to Casa’s construction is well underway.
Training Grounds
“Stadiums are essential, but training grounds are also important. There will be 32 training camps. Each camp will require 2 hotels. At each camp, there will be several lawns. Each team will also have 2 training grounds,” Lekjaa added.
Fouzi Lekjaa has called on all Moroccans, particularly private sector operators, to live up to these major infrastructure development projects.
“The stadiums should all be ready in 2027, including that of Casablanca.
Preparations towards the 2026 FIFA World Cup are expected to create 100,000 direct jobs according to forecasts.
It will be the second time that the illustrious tournament will be played in Africa and the first time different continents are sharing the hosting rights.
