Javier Tebas: Morocco More Likely Than Spain to Host 2030 World Cup Final

LaLiga president Javier Tebas said Spain’s chances of hosting the 2030 World Cup final are “extremely slim” unless Gianni Infantino remains FIFA president, suggesting Morocco holds the advantage.

Tebas said Spain’s chances would be “extremely slim” or “minimal or nonexistent” if Gianni Infantino remains FIFA president, tying the decision directly to political dynamics within football’s governing body rather than technical merit.

The dispute has simmered for years. Reports from October 2023 already pointed to tension between Spanish and Moroccan officials over which country would stage the final, part of a joint tournament also involving Portugal. By July 2026, the contest between Madrid and Rabat had become an active behind-the-scenes battle. In August 2026, Spanish officials continued insisting Spain deserved the match and expected FIFA to confirm it. The following month, Moroccan federation president Fouzi Lekjaa declared publicly that Casablanca would host the final, a claim that added fuel to the dispute.

FIFA has not made an official announcement. The organization responded to Lekjaa’s comments by saying the decision would come “in due course,” and it has denied claims that Infantino had already promised the match to Morocco. This ambiguity has allowed both countries to claim momentum in public statements while no binding decision has been made.

Morocco’s bid centers on the planned King Hassan II Stadium near Casablanca, projected by Reuters to hold around 115,000 spectators. Moroccan officials have expressed confidence that Benslimane will secure the match, pushing their case through both football and political channels. Tebas suggested Morocco’s influence with FIFA leadership could be strengthening its position. Morocco’s growing football stature has also been reflected in its national team, whose identity over the years has been shaped by the Morocco national team captains who wore the armband.

Spain, meanwhile, has promoted Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu and Barcelona’s Camp Nou as its leading candidates, citing organizational and infrastructure strengths. Spanish federation sources told The Athletic they see no scenario in which the final would not be played in Spain. Spanish leadership has repeatedly stated publicly that the match will be held domestically.

Tebas also suggested Spain should reconsider its role in the 2030 tournament if Morocco is awarded the final while Infantino remains in charge, reflecting growing frustration among Spanish officials over FIFA’s handling of the process.