Morocco: Major transformation of a country’s sports infrastructure

Morocco is set to make waves in its sports history by modernising its football infrastructure in preparation for major upcoming events, like hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Morocco is undertaking extensive renovations of iconic stadiums across its territory with international standards in mind; creating key moments on the global sporting stage as a result. 

Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat stands as an emblematic example of this transformation. Built for use at the Mediterranean Games of 1983, its capacity has since increased to 68,700 seats thanks to ongoing renovation work that could even surpass FIFA standards for hosting semi-final matches of their 2030 World Cup tournament. FIFA itself considers this venue one of its leading candidates as hosting these decisive stages of competition. 

Tangier has also shown its dedication to Morocco’s project by raising its stadium capacity from 76,000 seats when first inaugurated to 78,000 seats, well surpassing semi-final requirements and further solidifying Morocco as one of the likely co-hosts for World Cup 2018. 

Nearby Mohammedia boasts its very own Stade Hassan II Stadium which adds another dynamic to this campaign for Africa Football Cup hosting rights. Rivalling iconic venues like Madrid and Barcelona’s iconic arenas, it could serve as the venue of tournament final and mark an historical turning point in African football’s development. At the same time, these developments disprove recent reports citing delays in preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). FIFA recently issued its report and highlighted significant progress made towards preparations of Moroccan stadiums to host this continental event, even prior to 2030 as planned. These ambitious renovations reflect Morocco’s desire not only to meet FIFA expectations, but also set itself as an example for major sporting competitions preparation and management.