Morocco aims for World Cup glory after 2022 success

Morocco is set to host the final of the 2030 World Cup, co-hosted with Spain and Portugal, in a newly designed stadium inspired by traditional Maghrebi architecture. The Grand Stade Hassan II, with a capacity of 115,000, aims to be the largest football stadium in the world. This ambitious project is seen as a way for Morocco to assert its leadership in the region and enhance its image as a modernizing nation, especially after its historic semi-final run in the 2022 World Cup. The construction of the stadium, located in El Mansouria, is expected to create thousands of jobs and stimulate the economy of Africa's sixth-largest economy. However, there are concerns regarding the funding and potential private investment needed to complete the project. The success of Qatar's World Cup has inspired Morocco and other nations in the Middle East and North Africa to pursue similar international sporting events, reflecting a trend in sports diplomacy. Despite the excitement surrounding the World Cup, there are geopolitical tensions, particularly with Algeria, which has threatened to boycott the event. The Western Sahara issue remains a contentious topic that is often overlooked in international discussions. Critics argue that such sporting events can serve as a means of 'sportswashing,' distracting from political controversies and human rights issues. As Morocco prepares for this significant event, the enthusiasm among its citizens is palpable, overshadowing concerns about the legacy of existing stadiums and the average attendance at matches. The focus now is on the potential economic and social benefits that hosting the World Cup could bring to the nation.