In a historic decision, FIFA has confirmed that the 2030 FIFA World Cup will be hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. This marks the first time the tournament will be held across three continents and six countries. The decision was announced by FIFA President Gianni Infantino during a virtual extraordinary Congress on December 11, 2024.
To commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the World Cup, the opening three matches of the tournament will be held in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay. Uruguay hosted the inaugural World Cup in 1930, and Argentina was the runner-up. Paraguay is home to the South American football confederation CONMEBOL, which was the only confederation in existence at the time of the first World Cup.
The 2030 World Cup will be hosted across 18 venues in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. Spain will have the most available seats, with iconic stadiums like Camp Nou in Barcelona and Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid. Morocco will host matches in six stadiums, including the newly built Grand Stade Hassan II in Casablanca. Portugal will use three stadiums, including Estadio da Luz in Lisbon and Estadio do Dragao in Porto.
This decision is seen as a significant milestone for FIFA, as it brings the World Cup to new regions and celebrates its rich history. Hosting the tournament will provide a major boost to the economies of the host countries and promote football development in the region. It also highlights FIFA’s commitment to expanding the reach of the World Cup and making it a truly global event.
As preparations begin, the excitement and anticipation for the 2030 World Cup continue to grow. With a diverse range of venues and a rich cultural backdrop, the tournament promises to be an unforgettable experience for players and fans alike.