Morocco's World Cup journey ended in the quarter-finals against France, but officials of the FRMF have no time for a break. The Women's Africa Cup of Nations starts in Rabat on Sunday, followed by the Under-17 Women's World Cup in autumn. The main focus, however, is the 2030 World Cup, co-hosted with Spain and Portugal, with just over 1,400 days until kickoff.
Massive Investments and Economic Impact
Morocco has budgeted 50-60 billion Moroccan dirhams (£4bn-£4.8bn) for direct football investments, with additional infrastructure upgrades totaling £17bn. An IMF assessment found that accelerated expenditure from 2024 to 2030 would equal 11.9% of the country's 2024 GDP. The Morocco 2030 Foundation has studied the US World Cup organization and holds monthly meetings with Spain and Portugal. FIFA is expected to designate host cities by end of 2025.
Public Opinion and Ambivalence
“The World Cup, for Morocco, is beyond football; it is about developing infrastructure that would be beneficial for the country going forward,” said a leading official who declined to be named. “Our stadiums in Rabat and Tangier are 100% ready.” Journalist Amine El Amri noted: “Being in my 40s, I bear testimony to all the unsuccessful bids to host the World Cup. Hosting a World Cup is a project that engages every Moroccan in a common dream.” Sports sociologist Abderrahim Bourkia added: “Others with political positions wonder whether the huge investments should be directed toward education, health, or employment. Public opinion remains somewhat ambivalent.”
Lessons from South Africa 2010
Dennis Mumble, former CEO of the South African Football Association and member of the 2010 LOC, advised: “Our experience shows that ‘success’ lies in planning for legacy, promoting national unity and ensuring infrastructure does not become a burden. Some stadiums can become a burden on the fiscus, if not utilised optimally.” He warned about cost overruns: “There were significant cost overruns on the stadium development because contractors knew the government approved funds late. They were later criminally charged and convicted.”
African Legacy and Global Scrutiny
Morocco frames its co-hosting as “one with African colours,” but sub-Saharan nations question genuine legacy benefits. The FRMF has bilateral agreements with most African federations and plans to partner with CAF to address the lack of first-rate pitches across the continent. Mumble cautioned that global reputation management will be a major challenge, as Morocco's political, economic, and social issues will face intense media scrutiny, similar to Qatar 2022.
