The 2030 FIFA World Cup promises to be a landmark event, expanding its reach with Morocco, Portugal, and Spain as joint hosts. This edition marks the first time the tournament will span multiple confederations and visit North Africa.

In a nod to history, a special centenary match is set to take place at Estadio Centenario in Montevideo, Uruguay, the site of the inaugural World Cup final in 1930. Additionally, one match each will be held in Argentina and Paraguay to honor the tournament’s 100-year legacy.

The bidding process began in 2022, leading to the FIFA Congress in 2024 for the official selection. The Morocco-Portugal-Spain bid triumphed in October 2023, defeating a joint bid from Uruguay, Argentina, Paraguay, and Chile. FIFA President Gianni Infantino explained that hosting matches in South America is a tribute to the World Cup's roots, celebrating the original tournament's legacy.

Initially, 48 teams were expected, but discussions are underway to potentially expand this to 64 in recognition of the centenary, as proposed by Conmebol President Alejandro Domínguez.

The tournament will take place across 17 host cities, including major urban centers like Barcelona, Madrid, Marrakech, and Lisbon. With 11 of the 20 stadiums in Spain, the event is set to be a grand celebration of football history.

The decision to host a centenary match in South America while awarding the main tournament to Europe and Africa raises questions about future World Cups, as it renders South America ineligible for the 2034 edition, which has already been awarded to Saudi Arabia.