Morocco, US discuss 2030 World Cup and post-earthquake recovery efforts

United States Ambassador to Morocco, Puneet Talwar, met with Fouzi Lekjaa, Minister of Budget and President of the Moroccan Football Federation and the 2030 World Cup Bid Committee, in Rabat on Thursday, February 8th.

Described as «productive», their discussion centered on two key topics : Morocco's 2030 World Cup bid and post-earthquake reconstruction and financial strategies.

Both parties exchanged views on Morocco's «development objectives and ambitions» for hosting the 2030 World Cup, co-hosted with Spain and Portugal.

Discussions also touched upon the ongoing reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts in Al Haouz following the earthquake, as well as broader financial strategies for the kingdom.

Ambassador Talwar had a productive discussion with Minister Delegate Faouzi Lekjaa on Morocco’s 2030 World Cup goals and development ambitions, post-earthquake reconstruction and rehabilitation, and Morocco's financial strategies. The U.S. stands ready to support Morocco on its… pic.twitter.com/wQIFQsOXxD

— U.S. Embassy Morocco (@USEmbMorocco) February 8, 2024

According to the US Embassy's statement on the X platform, «The U.S. stands ready to support Morocco on its exciting journey towards recovery and expanded development».

As a previous host of the World Cup (1994) and a co-host for the upcoming 2026 edition (with Canada and Mexico), the US offers valuable experience in organizing such major sporting events. Notably, the 2026 World Cup will be the first to feature 48 teams, up from the previous 32.