Rabat: Morocco’s Prime Minister, Aziz Akhannouch, has directed the head of the national football federation to cease making assurances about hosting the 2030 World Cup final in Casablanca. This comes amid assertions from Spain that it should host the prestigious event.

According to BBC, the upcoming men’s World Cup will be jointly hosted by Morocco, Spain, and Portugal. However, an initial trio of matches will occur in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay to commemorate the tournament’s centenary. Although a list of potential host stadiums has been suggested, the final selection, including the location for the final match, remains undecided.

Fouzi Lekjaa, the president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (RMFF), had previously announced at a political party gathering that Casablanca would host the World Cup final. This prompted Prime Minister Akhannouch to caution Lekjaa against making such statements without consulting Spain and Portugal, Morocco’s co-hosting partners. Akhannouch emphasized the importance of maintaining respect and avoiding using such significant decisions for electoral promises.

Meanwhile, Rafael Louzan, the president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), has expressed confidence that Spain will host the final. He believes Spain’s recent victory in the men’s World Cup, securing their second title, strengthens their claim. Louzan highlighted Spain’s proven ability to organize major events, suggesting that the final match should logically be held there.

The debate comes as Morocco plans to build a 115,000-seat stadium, potentially the largest football venue globally. In contrast, Spain boasts renowned stadiums such as Real Madrid’s recently renovated Bernabeu Stadium, with a capacity of 83,000, and Barcelona’s Spotify Camp Nou, which will accommodate 105,000 spectators post-renovation.