President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Dr. Patrice Motsepe has celebrated Morocco’s selection as a co-host for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, alongside Spain and Portugal.
Speaking at the FIFA Extraordinary Congress following the announcement, Dr Motsepe highlighted the significance of the collaboration, describing it as a bridge between Africa and Europe through football.
“The Morocco, Portugal, and Spain partnership brings together and unites Africa and Europe through football and inspires all of us to work together to make the world a better place. Today is a proud day for African football as Morocco becomes only the second African country in FIFA’s history to host the FIFA World Cup.”
Morocco’s historic achievement comes after the country became the first African nation to reach the semi-finals of a FIFA World Cup during the 2022 tournament in Qatar. It now follows South Africa, which hosted the World Cup in 2010.
Dr. Motsepe commended Morocco’s unwavering dedication to its World Cup aspirations, extending his gratitude to His Majesty King Mohammed VI, the Moroccan government, and the people of Morocco for their leadership and support.
“We thank His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, for initiating and supporting Morocco’s FIFA World Cup 2030 bid,” Dr Motsepe said.
“I am proud of the role and the outstanding leadership provided by our Brother Fouzi Lekjaa, President of the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football.”
Morocco’s campaign enjoyed widespread backing from all 54 CAF member associations, underscoring a united front within African football.
Dr Motsepe also expressed appreciation for FIFA President Gianni Infantino and FIFA’s 211 member associations for entrusting Morocco with the prestigious hosting role.
“Our gratitude goes to FIFA President Gianni Infantino for his visionary leadership and to the 211 Members of FIFA for awarding the co-hosting rights of the FIFA World Cup 2030 to Morocco and to Africa,” he stated.
The 2030 FIFA World Cup will feature 48 teams and commemorate the tournament’s centennial by including opening matches in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay—the birthplace of the World Cup.
Dr Motsepe also congratulated Saudi Arabia for being named the host of the 2034 FIFA World Cup, emphasizing CAF’s strong partnership with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation.
He acknowledged Saudi Arabia’s contributions to global football development and its role in strengthening the sport’s international footprint.
