Morocco, Spain, and Portugal announced their joint bid to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
The King of Morocco, Mohammed VI, made the announcement on Tuesday in Kigali, through the Minister of Sports and Education, Chakib Benmoussa.
“Moroccan football’s success at the last World Cup in Qatar has not only made Africa proud, but has also exemplified the values of perseverance, self-sacrifice, and self-improvement. In order to promote and instil these values, we are committed to connecting sports and education, expanding football participation, unlocking players’ potential, and providing personalized training to support emerging talent,” he said.
In attendance were Rwanda President Paul Kagame, CAF boss Patrice Motsepe, Fifa President Gianni Infantino, confederation heads, federation presidents from the 54 CAF member associations, and CAF Executive Committee members.
Morocco’s statement said the joint bid will bring together Africa and Europe and will be a combination of genius, creativity, experience, and means.
The bid is set to face competition from Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay, who are presenting a South American bid.
Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Greece are also said to be interested. Morocco previously hosted the World Cup in 1986.
If the joint bid is successful, it will be the second time the tournament is held in Africa, following South Africa’s hosting in 2010.
The Atlas Lions’ coach Walid Regrarui was confident Morocco can stage the global showpiece in 2030. The winning bid will be announced at the 2024 FIFA Congress.
