For the first time in history, Fifa has awarded the organization of the World Cup to three countries from two different confederations and continents. Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay will each host a match in the competition which will then move to Portugal, Spain and Morocco.
A decision welcomed with great enthusiasm in Morocco. “This is an important moment in the history of Morocco, a great achievement under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. It is an honor and a responsibility that we have before us and a privilege to join forces with Portugal and Spain to prepare a candidacy file which, I am sure, will mark history and push the organization competition at an unprecedented level,” explained Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation.
Fernando Gomes, president of the Portuguese Football Federation, also welcomed Fifa’s decision: “Each of our countries brings a vibrant footballing tradition, unrivaled organizational experience and a capacity to innovate which will certainly mark the future of the competition .” Finally, Pedro Rocha, president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation, wanted to highlight “the dream of being able to bring back to Spain, almost 50 years later, the organization of a World Cup. I am sure that together, with Morocco and Portugal, we will organize the best World Cup ever!”