2030 World Cup: Morocco links tournament preparations to wider national development

Morocco has presented its vision for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, highlighting plans to use the tournament as a catalyst for infrastructure development, tourism, transport and opportunities for young people.

The North African country was guest of honour at the fifth Olé Summit in Buenos Aires on Tuesday, where its role as a co-host of the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal was discussed.

Morocco’s Ambassador to Argentina Fares Yasser, Morocco 2030 Foundation mission officer Othmane Badssi and customer experience official Jihane Bijjou represented the country at the summit.

A World Cup linking Africa, Europe and South America

Yasser highlighted the unique geographical nature of the 2030 tournament, which will bring together Africa, Europe and South America.

Morocco, Spain and Portugal will host the main part of the tournament, while Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay are expected to stage commemorative matches to mark 100 years of the World Cup.

The Moroccan delegation said preparations for the tournament are being viewed as part of a wider development strategy, with projects designed to provide benefits beyond the competition itself.

Infrastructure investment, tourism, transport and renewable energy are among the areas Morocco is seeking to develop as it prepares to welcome the global football community.

Morocco targets lasting infrastructure legacy

Badssi said the country’s preparations for 2030 build on sporting and infrastructure projects that began years before Morocco was selected as a co-host.

He cited the 2008 National Sport Conference and the opening of the Mohammed VI Football Academy in 2009 as important stages in Morocco’s efforts to improve sporting infrastructure and develop football talent.

Current preparations include the construction and renovation of stadiums, improvements to training facilities and upgrades to airports, railway networks and hotels.

The Morocco 2030 Foundation views those developments as more than preparations for hosting matches, with the projects also expected to contribute to economic and territorial development across the country.

Young people central to Morocco’s plans

Bijjou stressed the social importance of football and the role young people could play in the country’s World Cup legacy.

She noted that football in Morocco goes beyond professional clubs and academies, with the sport deeply connected to everyday life in neighbourhoods, public spaces and beaches.

The foundation therefore wants the tournament to help widen access to football and encourage greater participation among young people.

The Olé Summit, organised by Argentine sports newspaper Olé, brings together representatives from sport, media, technology, innovation and entertainment.

The event is being held at the Usina del Arte in Buenos Aires and continues through Wednesday, coinciding with Olé’s 30th anniversary.