Three killed in Morocco as youth protests over 2030 World Cup spending

At least two people have been killed in Morocco during nationwide youth protests against the government’s heavy investment in preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

Reports by Al Jazeera and the New York Times indicate that the death toll has since risen to three, marking the first fatalities since demonstrations broke out earlier this week.

The protests, led largely by Gen Z activists, have been fuelled by anger at what many see as misplaced priorities.

Demonstrators argue that the government has chosen to pour billions into football infrastructure while neglecting critical needs such as hospitals, schools, and job creation.

A phrase that has become a rallying cry on the streets sums up their frustration: “Stadiums are here, but where are the hospitals?”

The movement is demanding the resignation of the current government, citing its failure to uphold constitutional rights and its inability to provide adequate social services.

Protesters have also called for urgent reforms in the health and education sectors, which they say are collapsing under the weight of underfunding and neglect.

Morocco was last year confirmed as a co-host of the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain, Portugal, Paraguay, Uruguay and Argentina, becoming the second African nation to stage football’s most prestigious event after South Africa in 2010.

FIFA hailed Morocco’s “footballing passion” and pointed to the country’s youthful demographics, noting that more than half of the population is under 30 and would benefit from what organisers described as the tournament’s “positive economic and social legacy.”

Yet, the promises of legacy are being met with scepticism. Morocco is expected to spend around $35 billion on infrastructure ahead of the global showpiece.

The bid book outlined plans for six stadiums across the country, while FIFA President Gianni Infantino recently toured the Tangier stadium, which underwent a $400 million renovation.

Critics say such figures highlight the widening gap between government spending on football and the dire state of public services.

The protests are the most serious expression of dissent since Morocco secured World Cup hosting rights, underscoring the challenges authorities face in balancing international prestige with domestic realities.

In December, Morocco will also host the Africa Cup of Nations, further cementing its position as a hub for major sporting events.

For now, however, the government confronts mounting unrest at home, with youth anger threatening to overshadow the celebrations of sporting milestones.