فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
The joint announcement by Morocco, Spain, and Portugal to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup marks a historic milestone in the trajectory of sports cooperation among the three nations. This partnership is the culmination of evolving athletic and diplomatic relations developed over decades. In October 2023, FIFA officially confirmed that the 2030 World Cup would be jointly organized by the three countries—marking the first edition of the tournament to be held across two continents, Europe and Africa. This decision reflects a strategic shift in the global vision for organizing major international events.
The sports collaboration between Morocco and Spain dates back several decades, particularly in areas such as training, refereeing, and the organization of football tournaments. Since the 1990s, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation has signed multiple cooperation agreements with its Spanish counterpart, involving the exchange of expertise in coaching and training, as well as the hosting of friendly matches at both national and club levels. In recent years, several training programs have been held for Moroccan coaches under the supervision of Spanish experts, especially in regional football training centers.
As for Portugal, sports cooperation with Morocco has significantly strengthened since the early 2000s. A series of agreements have been signed to facilitate the exchange of sports delegations and the participation in international youth competitions, alongside coordination on sports infrastructure and the organization of major events. Morocco’s hosting of the 2019 African Games, coupled with Portugal’s experience in organizing various European competitions, has helped both countries align their visions regarding organizational standards and sports innovation.
The joint bid to host the 2030 World Cup—officially launched in March 2023—represents a pivotal chapter in the partnership among the three nations. The tripartite committee overseeing the bid, composed of representatives from the national football associations and respective governments, has emphasized its ambition to present a new model of cross-border cooperation. This model is founded on shared values of tolerance, sustainability, and equal opportunity. Morocco is expected to host several official matches in cities such as Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech, while the European countries will host other games, including the semi-finals and final in major stadiums such as Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid.
The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) regards this joint bid as a unique opportunity to foster closer ties between the northern and southern shores of the Mediterranean through sports, while also building a sustainable athletic and economic legacy. The three countries aim to invest in infrastructure development, enhance air transport, expand hotel capacities, and train thousands of volunteers in preparation for the event. These initiatives are expected to generate job opportunities and contribute to local development.
Observers believe that the tripartite cooperation ahead of the 2030 World Cup extends beyond sports, carrying significant diplomatic and cultural dimensions. It aligns with a new regional policy focused on building strategic partnerships between the Global North and South. This initiative reinforces Morocco’s position as a key player in global sporting events and reflects its commitment to international dynamics that combine athletic competition with developmental collaboration.
Source: Fes News Media
