**Title: Morocco PM Criticizes Football Federation Chief Over 2030 World Cup Final Claims**
**Rabat, Morocco** – Morocco's Prime Minister, Aziz Akhannouch, has publicly criticized the president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (RMFF), Fouzi Lekjaa, following Lekjaa's assertion that the final of the 2030 FIFA World Cup would be held in Casablanca. This statement comes despite the fact that FIFA has yet to confirm the host city for the final match.
During a political rally in Rabat, Akhannouch expressed his discontent with Lekjaa's comments, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among the three co-hosting nations—Morocco, Spain, and Portugal. He stated, “Do not offer to host the big final game in Morocco while we still have not discussed the matter with our allies, Spain and Portugal. There should be some respect, brothers.”
Akhannouch's remarks highlight the sensitivity surrounding the decision-making process for the World Cup, particularly as it involves multiple nations. He urged against using such declarations as political leverage, stating, “Stop using electoral promises to pull the rug out from under us. These are huge matters. Deciding where the final will be held is a major issue.”
The Prime Minister's comments come in the lead-up to upcoming elections in Morocco, where political rhetoric can often intensify. Lekjaa had made his bold claim during a political party event, suggesting that the province of Benslimane would have the “honour” of hosting the final match.
FIFA, the governing body of world football, has not yet made a decision regarding which of the three co-hosts will host the final match of the tournament. A spokesperson for FIFA indicated that an announcement would be made in due course, underscoring the uncertainty surrounding the event.
As of May 2026, Morocco is in the process of constructing a proposed 115,000-seat stadium intended for the World Cup. Reports indicate that the project is approximately 30 percent complete, with hopes to finalize construction by the end of 2027. This ambitious infrastructure project is seen as a crucial element in Morocco's bid to successfully host the World Cup alongside its European partners.
The situation reflects the complexities of international sporting events, where political, logistical, and diplomatic considerations intersect. As the countdown to the 2030 World Cup continues, the dynamics among the co-hosts will be closely watched, particularly in light of the differing ambitions and statements from their respective football federations.
The RMFF has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding Lekjaa’s statements, leaving the discourse on the World Cup final's location open to further speculation and debate.