Sport

World Cup 2030: Morocco Denies Rumors About Hosting the Final

Thursday 16 July 2026 - 19:55

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The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has rejected statements attributed to the former president of the Spanish Football Federation, Luis Rubiales, claiming that Morocco had agreed for the 2030 World Cup final to be held in Spain.

These assertions, reported by a Spanish media outlet, suggest a supposed agreement reached during initial discussions among the three candidate countries for hosting the tournament. According to this version, Spain was to host both the opening match and the final, while Morocco and Portugal allegedly consented to this arrangement.

FRMF Denies Any Agreement on the Final

When questioned about this, a source from the FRMF firmly contested these statements, asserting that they are not based on any concrete evidence. The Moroccan body emphasizes that all decisions related to the joint bid and the organization of the 2030 World Cup are handled by an official structure specifically established to oversee the project.

The Federation also reminds that this structure is the only one authorized to communicate about negotiations, strategic directions, and decisions regarding the competition. Consequently, the remarks attributed to Luis Rubiales are deemed unfounded.

A Bid Based on Balanced Partnership

Morocco, Spain, and Portugal have been awarded the joint organization of the 2030 World Cup as part of an unprecedented project uniting two continents. Since the announcement of this designation, several questions remain regarding the distribution of the most prestigious matches, particularly the opening match and the final.

The sports authorities of the three countries continue their coordination work with FIFA to define the organizational aspects of the tournament. At this stage, no official decision has been announced regarding the stadium that will host the final.

Rubiales' Statements Renew Speculations

According to the statements attributed to him, Luis Rubiales claimed that Morocco primarily demanded to be recognized as a full partner in organizing the event, rather than just a host country for a few matches. He also suggested that the Kingdom's integration into the joint project played a major role in the success of the bid with FIFA.

However, these claims have been categorically rejected by the FRMF, which insists that only official communications can be considered as a reference regarding the organization of the 2030 World Cup.

A Former Leader with a Controversial Background

Luis Rubiales left the presidency of the Spanish Federation in 2023 following several controversies. He was subsequently suspended for three years by FIFA. In 2025, the Spanish judiciary found him guilty of sexual assault in the case involving the kiss imposed on player Jennifer Hermoso during the medal ceremony of the 2023 Women's World Cup.

As preparations for the 2030 World Cup continue, the host countries are working on various logistical and sporting aspects. The distribution of the tournament's major matches is expected to be announced officially once discussions among the concerned parties have concluded.