By Nina Cook • Updated: 12 Oct 2024 • 21:18 • 2 minutes read
Camp Nou vs. Santiago Bernabeu to host World Cup final in 2030. The only thing that’s missing is the referee. | Credit: Culemanía
Who’s ready for the next chapter in the endless saga between Barcelona and Madrid? This time, it’s not about league points or golden boots, but something much, much bigger: who should host the 2030 World Cup final.
Both cities have been fierce rivals on and off the field for years, with El Clásico matches capturing the world’s attention. But now, the rivalry has extended far beyond football games, touching on cultural, political, and infrastructural pride. It’s no surprise that Barcelona and Madrid both have their eyes set on hosting what would be one of the most prestigious events in football history—and their arguments ready for why their stadium is ideal.
Adding to the competition, Morocco has also thrown its hat into the ring. In a joint bid with Spain and Portugal, Morocco has been confirmed to co-host the tournament, giving Africa another shot at hosting football’s biggest event since South Africa in 2010. The North African nation’s proximity to Spain and its growing football infrastructure make it a strong contender for sharing some of the World Cup’s key matches.
The Madrid-Barcelona rivalry isn’t just about football anymore—it’s about prestige, history, and international recognition.
David Escudé, Barcelona’s Sports Councillor, recently made a public case for why Camp Nou should be the venue for the final match, positioning it against Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu. He cited Barcelona’s long footballing history and the planned renovation of Camp Nou, which is expected to transform it into a world-class cutting-edge stadium by 2030.
Escudé also claimed that Madrid’s Bernabeu does not currently meet FIFA’s specifications to host the final, and that even Morocco’s stadium is more suitable, further fuelling the fire.
“With the objective data in hand, the Bernabeu does not meet FIFA’s requirements, as does the new Spotify Camp Nou that is being built and the new stadium in Casablanca,” he shared in a conversation with Catalunya Radio.
By 2030, the renovated Camp Nou will offer a state-of-the-art experience with the latest technological advancements and fan amenities. Meanwhile, the Bernabeu has already had its big makeover. The new stadium features a retractable roof, upgraded seating, and high-tech facilities, positioning itself as one of the most advanced football venues in the world. Its futuristic design is a statement of Madrid’s ambitions to remain a world leader in football.
As Spain, Portugal, and Morocco vie for the honour of hosting the 2030 World Cup final, the competition is no longer just about football—it has evolved into a contest of political, economic, and social influence.
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Nina Cook is a writer, editor, and literary translator, born in England and raised in New Zealand. In 2015 she fell under the spell of coastal Almería, where she continues to cultivate her love for language and literature. Follow her on X: @esoledit
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