The FIFA Council has made a momentous decision, selecting Morocco, Portugal, and Spain as the exclusive hosts for the prestigious 2030 FIFA World Cup. Additionally, Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay will have the honor of hosting three World Cup matches in commemoration of the tournament’s centenary, which was originally held in Uruguay’s capital, Montevideo, back in 1930.
It’s essential to note that both of these significant choices are contingent upon a meticulous bidding process led by FIFA and the ultimate approval of the FIFA Congress in 2024.
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Now, let’s delve into more details to answer some crucial questions about the 2030 tournament.
1. Who will have the privilege of hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup?
Morocco, Portugal, and Spain have been granted the prestigious responsibility of hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup. This joint candidacy received support from the Confederations of African Football (CAF), South American Football (CONMEBOL), and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA).
2. What is the significance of Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay hosting three games?
The year 2030 marks a historical milestone for FIFA, as it commemorates 100 years since the inaugural FIFA World Cup was held in South America, spread across three iconic stadiums. The FIFA Council has, therefore, approved a remarkable centenary celebration of the FIFA World Cup in South America, specifically in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay.
3. How and why were the host countries selected?
The candidacy of Morocco, Portugal, and Spain for the 2030 FIFA World Cup was initially proposed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA). Similarly, the candidacy of Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay for the Centenary Celebration was proposed by the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL).
These candidacies were enthusiastically endorsed by the three respective confederations. Additionally, one of the centennial matches will be held in Montevideo, Uruguay, in conjunction with the centenary celebration and ceremony, paying tribute to Uruguay’s role as the host and runner-up in the 1930 edition. Another match will be played in Paraguay, acknowledging its significance as the headquarters of CONMEBOL, the only confederation in existence during the 1930 edition.
4. Who qualifies for the 2030 FIFA World Cup?
Pending the bidding process and FIFA Congress approval, the host countries, namely Morocco, Portugal, Spain, Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay, will automatically qualify from their respective confederations.
5. How will the fixture calendar for the 2030 FIFA World Cup accommodate the additional travel across six countries?
The fixture calendar for the 2030 FIFA World Cup will undergo unique adaptations to provide ample time for travel, rest, adjustment, and preparation between matches. This schedule will allow approximately 11 to 12 days for travel and rest for the six teams participating in the centenary celebration matches in South America.
Furthermore, approximately five to six days will be provided for travel and rest for the other six group opponents and all other participating teams. The three matches played in South America will be scheduled ahead of the official opening games in Morocco, Portugal, and Spain. The following summary illustrates the relevant dates for this adjustment:
- Saturday and Sunday, June 8 and 9, 2030: Centenary celebration ceremony and Uruguay’s first matches in Montevideo, Argentina at home, and Paraguay at home.
- Thursday and Friday, June 13 and 14, 2030: Opening ceremony and opening game(s) of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
- Saturday and Sunday, June 15 and 16, 2030: First matches of the other teams from the Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay groups.
- Friday and Saturday, June 21 and 22, 2030: Second matches for all teams from the Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay groups.
- Sunday, July 21, 2030: 2030 FIFA World Cup Final
These adjustments will be made within the existing international fixture calendar, with no additional days or costs for the participating national teams, players, or clubs. Additionally, the same exceptions as those applied during the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be in place for players competing in the finals of the confederation’s club competitions.
6. When will the official hosts of the 2030 FIFA World Cup be confirmed?
The highly anticipated confirmation of the hosts for the 2030 FIFA World Cup is expected to be made by the FIFA Congress, comprising all 211 member associations, in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Samba Gold 2023: Open voting!
Voting for the Samba Gold Award 2023 is now open. Choose your favorite in the men’s, women’s and under-20 categories!
