Morocco and Spain clash over hosting rights for 2030 World Cup final

Morocco and Spain are locked in a dispute over which nation will host the 2030 World Cup final, with FIFA yet to confirm a decision, according to The Associated Press, via Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. Moroccan federation president Fouzi Lakjaa insisted the final would be held at Casablanca’s Hassan II Stadium, telling a political rally that critics could “talk on top of that” if they wished. Spanish federation head Rafael Louzán countered that Spain, as reigning world champions in both men’s and women’s football, deserves to host the game.

The row comes amid strained diplomatic relations between Madrid and Rabat following a mass border crossing into Ceuta in July that reportedly left 140 people dead. FIFA president Gianni Infantino, under pressure after a failed bid to sell World Cup stakes, has made recent visits to Morocco, while European officials argue the final should remain on the continent.