Morocco has officially rejected the opportunity to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup final, according to a report from the Spanish newspaper Marca. The decision comes amidst ongoing negotiations between the three host nations—Spain, Portugal, and Morocco—regarding the distribution of major matches for the historic tournament.
The report states that Moroccan football officials have made their position clear: they want matches of significant stature, but not the ultimate final. Instead, Moroccan authorities are reportedly focused on securing what they describe as “what Spain has.” This is understood to be a push to host a semi-final, the opening match, and a substantial number of group-stage and knockout-round games, mirroring the package expected for Spain.
This development directly contradicts earlier speculation that the final could be held in Casablanca. The tripartite bid, celebrating 100 years of the World Cup, will see the opening three matches played in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay before the action moves to the three primary host nations. With Morocco’s refusal, the path is now clear for the 2030 World Cup final to be held at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium in Madrid, Spain.
The Spanish capital’s iconic venue is undergoing a major renovation, with the project slated for completion in the final quarter of 2026. Its selection as the final venue is now considered a formality following Morocco’s withdrawal from contention for the showpiece event.
