Ceuta supporters voice opposition to Morocco’s role in 2030 World Cup hosting

Supporters in Ceuta have expressed strong opposition to Morocco being involved in hosting the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, amid continuing tensions over migration and the border between the Spanish city and Morocco.

The comments were made by fans of Atletico Ceuta who attended their side’s match against Celta Fortuna, according to Spanish newspaper Marca. Some called for Morocco to be removed from the tournament’s hosting arrangements altogether.

One young supporter told Marca: “I would expel them; they do not deserve to host the World Cup. If people are leaving their country, they cannot host the World Cup. Whoever is not a partner in our wellbeing cannot host the World Cup with us.”

Another fan said: “I would expel Morocco from the hosting bid. I do not understand how there can be any doubt. The World Cup should be for Spain and Portugal. Morocco should not be involved, and it should not even take part in the World Cup.”

The remarks come at a particularly sensitive time for Ceuta, following one of the largest migration crises witnessed in the city in recent years. Large numbers of migrants crossed from the Moroccan side during 30 and 31 July in an episode that placed considerable pressure on the border.

Spanish reports said that more than 70,000 people reached Ceuta during the crisis, creating widespread disorder and severe strain on the city’s ability to manage the influx.

Some supporters went beyond calls for Morocco to be removed from the hosting plans. One fan suggested Spain could refuse to participate in the tournament altogether, saying: “If I were Spain, I would not play in the World Cup, and let FIFA decide what it would do if the world champions said they would not take part.”

Spain, Portugal and Morocco are scheduled to host the 2030 World Cup. The tournament will be a historic edition, with matches staged across more than one continent.

As part of celebrations to mark the centenary of the first World Cup, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay are also due to stage matches. The inaugural tournament was held in Uruguay in 1930.

The joint hosting plan has brought together countries from Europe and Africa, but the political relationship between Spain and Morocco remains affected by disputes over migration and border management. Ceuta, a Spanish city on the north coast of Africa, has been at the centre of those tensions.

The objections reported by Marca reflect the anger of some local supporters, rather than an official change to the 2030 World Cup hosting arrangements. The tournament is still planned as a multi-country event involving Spain, Portugal and Morocco, with the South American matches forming part of the centenary celebrations.