Following extensive consultation with all confederations and in recognition of the significance of the FIFA World Cup’s centenary, the FIFA Council made crucial decisions regarding the bidding and hosting of the milestone 2030 edition of the tournament during its virtual meeting at the Home of FIFA.
In 2030, the FIFA World Cup will bring together three continents and six countries, inviting the global community to partake in the celebration of the beautiful game, the centenary, and the tournament itself.
The FIFA Council unanimously agreed to award the hosting rights to the combined bid of Morocco, Portugal, and Spain, making them the official hosts for the 2030 event. These nations will automatically qualify for the tournament based on the existing slot allocation, pending a successful bidding process conducted by FIFA and a final decision by the FIFA Congress in 2024.
Furthermore, given the historical significance of the inaugural FIFA World Cup, the FIFA Council also unanimously decided to organize a special centenary celebration ceremony in Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, where the first tournament was held in 1930. Additionally, three World Cup matches will take place in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay, respectively.
“In a world that often feels divided, FIFA and football are uniting,” stated FIFA President Gianni Infantino. “Representing the global football community, the FIFA Council unanimously agreed that the centenary of the FIFA World Cup, which commenced in Uruguay in 1930, must be commemorated in a fitting manner. Consequently, a celebration will be held in South America, and Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay will each host one match of the FIFA World Cup 2030.”
Infantino added, “The FIFA Council also unanimously agreed that the only bid to host the FIFA World Cup 2030 will be the joint bid of Morocco, Portugal, and Spain. This collaboration between Africa and Europe not only celebrates football but also promotes social and cultural cohesion. It sends a powerful message of peace, tolerance, and inclusion.“
“In 2030, our global footprint will be truly exceptional, with three continents – Africa, Europe, and South America – and six countries – Argentina, Morocco, Paraguay, Portugal, Spain, and Uruguay – coming together to welcome and unite the world, while jointly celebrating the beautiful game, the centenary, and the FIFA World Cup,” concluded the FIFA President.
