Morocco: Akhannouch criticizes Lekjaa’s promises regarding the 2030 World Cup

Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch criticized the announcements made by Fouzi Lekjaa regarding the 2030 World Cup on Thursday, September 10, in Médiouna, arguing that major national projects should not be turned into electoral promises less than two weeks before the legislative elections on September 23.

Speaking to supporters of the National Rally of Independents, Akhannouch specifically challenged the notion that Morocco could already claim to host the final of the 2030 World Cup. He reminded attendees that the allocation of major matches should be subject to official consultations among Morocco, Spain, and Portugal, the three main host countries.

Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation and a member of the political bureau of the Authenticity and Modernity Party, defended the candidacy of the future Grand Stade Hassan II in Benslimane to host the final. FIFA has awarded the tournament to Morocco, Spain, and Portugal, but has not yet designated the stadium for the final match.

Akhannouch also emphasized the national character of major infrastructure projects, particularly the Benslimane stadium. In a report published by his party, he stated that these investments are the responsibility of the state and cannot be presented as the achievements of a political party or a specific official.

These comments come amid the campaign for the legislative elections on September 23. The National Rally of Independents, the Authenticity and Modernity Party, and the Istiqlal Party are governing together but are presenting their own lists for the renewal of the 395 seats in the House of Representatives.

FIFA confirms that Morocco, Spain, and Portugal are the main host countries for the 2030 edition, with three commemorative matches taking place in Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The specific choice of the final stadium is not included in the allocation decisions published by the organization.