Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Morocco 2030 preparations are accelerating with about 1,400 days remaining before the country co-hosts the centenary FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal. Officials must control vast spending while ensuring Africa's second World Cup leaves lasting public benefits.
Morocco budgeted 50 billion to 60 billion dirhams for football investment, with wider upgrades reportedly costing £17 billion. An International Monetary Fund assessment calculated that accelerated spending through 2030 would equal 11.9% of Morocco's 2024 gross domestic product.
Away from stadium construction, clubs have remained active through a series of football transfers completed during the World Cup.
Infrastructure Plans Face Public Scrutiny
The Morocco 2030 Foundation is studying the 2026 tournament while meeting Spanish and Portuguese officials monthly. FIFA is expected to name host cities by year's end, with its official guide confirming the hosting plan.
"The World Cup, for Morocco, is beyond football; it is about developing infrastructure that would be beneficial for the country going forward," an unnamed Moroccan official said.
Transport, airports, railways and stadiums are central to the program. Critics question whether parts of the budget should instead support healthcare, education and employment.
South Africa Offers a Warning
Former South African Football Association chief executive Dennis Mumble urged Morocco to plan for stadium use well beyond 2030. "Our experience shows that ‘success’ lies in planning for legacy, promoting national unity and ensuring infrastructure does not become a burden over the long term," Dennis Mumble said.
South Africa's 2010 preparations included stadium overruns and legal action against contractors. Morocco must also help African countries that lack suitable pitches for international matches.
The final measure will be whether the investment serves Moroccan communities long after supporters leave.