Morocco 2030 World Cup: Akhannouch and Infantino Discuss Preparations in New York
Morocco 2030: FIFA President Confident in “Magnificent” World Cup Host
New York, NY – Amidst the flurry of activity at the 79th United Nations General Assembly, a crucial meeting unfolded between Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The topic? The exciting prospect of the 2030 World Cup, a tournament Morocco is bidding to host alongside Spain and Portugal.
Infantino, clearly impressed by the progress made, expressed his confidence in Morocco’s ability to deliver a world-class event. “Morocco is a football nation, and everything is ready,” he stated in a press conference following the meeting. He praised the ambitious projects underway across various Moroccan cities, emphasizing his belief that the North African nation would be a “magnificent” host.
The FIFA President highlighted the passion for football shared by King Mohammed VI and the Moroccan people, acknowledging the King’s unwavering support for the sport. This sentiment echoes the global excitement surrounding the prospect of Africa hosting its second World Cup, following South Africa’s successful tournament in 2010.
The final decision on the 2030 World Cup host will be made in December, following a vote by the FIFA Congress. However, Infantino’s optimism, coupled with Morocco’s proven track record in hosting major sporting events like the 2015 and 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, paints a promising picture for the joint bid.
Morocco’s commitment to delivering a memorable World Cup experience is evident in its ongoing infrastructure development. New stadiums are being constructed, existing ones are undergoing renovations, and transportation networks are being upgraded to accommodate the influx of fans and teams.
The potential economic benefits of hosting the World Cup are significant. A study by Grant Thornton estimated that the 2022 World Cup in Qatar contributed $17 billion to the country’s economy. A similar economic boost could be transformative for Morocco, creating jobs, attracting investment, and boosting tourism.
As the world awaits FIFA’s decision in December, one thing is clear: Morocco is ready to welcome the world with open arms and showcase its passion for the beautiful game.