Morocco denies involvement in Ceuta migrant influx as declassified documents show Spain was warned ahead of mass crossing

Morocco and Spain are in a dispute over which nation should host the 2030 World Cup final, with FIFA president Gianni Infantino weighing in backstage. FIFA has not officially decided on the host country yet. Although the 2026 World Cup was won by Spain, Moroccan and Spanish officials are both claiming the right to host the next final.

The tension over the final also comes amidst Spain's recent border crisis, where tens of thousands of migrants crossed from Morocco to the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. Moroccan soccer federation president Fouzi Lakjaa stated that Benslimane, Morocco, will host the 2030 World Cup final at the King Hassan II stadium, which will have a capacity of 115,000 spectators.

Spanish soccer federation head Rafael Louzán agrees that Spain, as world champions in both men's and women's soccer, should host the final. FIFA's decision is expected to be made "in due course." Infantino has faced criticism for his stance, with UEFA leading a revolt over his plan to sell World Cup stakes. Six Arab nation federations, including Morocco, have supported Infantino since the controversy.

This dispute adds to existing diplomatic tensions between Morocco and Spain, following the border crisis in July, where over 30,000 migrants entered Ceuta. Spain's prime minister claims 140 people died in the crossing, while Spanish authorities say the death toll is uncertain and suspect Moroccan security forces' involvement.