Morocco’s remarkable World Cup journey ended with a quarter-final defeat to France, but the nation’s football officials are far from resting. With the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations kicking off in Rabat just a week after the World Cup final in New Jersey, and the Under-17 Women’s World Cup on the horizon, preparations remain urgent.

As Morocco gears up to co-host the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, the focus is on managing the extensive preparations for this significant event. Key figures include:

• 50-60 billion Moroccan dirhams (approximately £4bn-£4.8bn) allocated for direct football investments.
• An additional estimated £17bn earmarked for infrastructure upgrades.

The Morocco 2030 Foundation, established in 2024, has been learning from the US’s World Cup organization, while monthly meetings with Spain and Portugal aim to ensure cooperative planning. FIFA is expected to announce host cities by the end of the year.

A leading official emphasized that the World Cup transcends football, aiming to develop infrastructure beneficial for the nation. With stadiums in Rabat and Tangier fully prepared, the excitement is palpable.

However, the journey is not without skepticism. Abderrahim Bourkia, a sports sociologist, notes public ambivalence regarding the World Cup's value against pressing needs like education and health.

Morocco is investing significantly in transport, urban renewal, and governance, drawing lessons from South Africa’s 2010 experience. Dennis Mumble, a former CEO of the South African Football Association, warns of potential pitfalls, including cost overruns and the importance of legacy planning.

While Morocco promotes its World Cup as “one with African colours,” questions linger about the genuine legacy benefits for African football. The FRMF is working to enhance facilities across the continent, hoping to create lasting improvements beyond the tournament.