Infantino calls Morocco ‘home’ as he tips 2030 World Cup co-hosts to deliver ‘most beautiful’ tournament

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has described Morocco as his “home” and predicted that the 2030 World Cup, co-hosted by the North African nation alongside Spain and Portugal, will be the “most beautiful” edition in the tournament’s history.

Infantino was speaking during celebrations for Morocco’s Throne Day, after being invited to a reception in the coastal city of M’diq, presided over by King Mohammed VI.

The head of world football’s governing body said he felt a deep sense of pride at being part of the national festivities, and used the occasion to highlight Morocco’s growing role on the global football stage.

“I am at home in this great country, the Kingdom of Morocco, to take part in the celebrations of Throne Day,” Infantino said, in comments published by the Maghreb Arab Press news agency.

‘No doubt’ over 2030 World Cup appeal

Infantino underlined his enthusiasm for Morocco’s involvement in the centenary edition of the World Cup, which in 2030 will mark 100 years since the first tournament was staged in Uruguay in 1930.

He expressed his confidence that the joint bid involving Morocco, Spain and Portugal would provide an exceptional experience for teams and supporters alike.

“The 2030 World Cup, which the Kingdom of Morocco is preparing to host alongside Spain and Portugal, will undoubtedly be the most beautiful in history,” he said.

Infantino went on to stress that the Moroccan segment of the tournament would be played in a country he considers among the most attractive settings in world football.

“The next World Cup edition, which will take place in one of the most beautiful countries in the world, which is Morocco, can only be the most beautiful,” he added.

Praise for Moroccan fans and football culture

The FIFA president linked his optimism for the tournament’s success to what he described as the distinctive passion of Moroccan football fans.

He highlighted the way supporters in the country rally behind their national team, pointing to their reputation for vibrant and enthusiastic backing in stadiums across Morocco.

In this context, Infantino said that Moroccans, “known for their passion for football and for celebrating their national team with joy and enthusiasm”, would also extend that same warmth to visitors from around the world during the 2030 finals.

Morocco’s selection as a co-host, together with Spain and Portugal, forms part of a wider, multi-nation plan for the 2030 World Cup, which is intended to commemorate the centenary of the competition while spreading matches across different countries and continents.

Infantino’s remarks during the Throne Day reception underlined both FIFA’s endorsement of Morocco’s role in the project and his belief that the country’s football culture and infrastructure will help deliver a memorable edition of the tournament.