Spain Proposes New Stadiums for 2030 World Cup Bid Following Two Withdrawals

The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has proposed two new stadiums to be included in Spain's bid to host the 2030 World Cup, replacing two venues that recently withdrew. Spain aims to contribute 11 stadiums to the tournament, although FIFA is expected to reject at least one of these proposals.

The 2030 World Cup, co-hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, is projected to feature between 16 and 18 venues in total. Portugal intends to keep its three chosen stadiums, while Morocco is pushing for its six selected venues, though one is reportedly at risk.

Riazor and La Rosaleda Stadiums Withdraw from World Cup Hosting Bid

FIFA recently began inspecting potential World Cup venues. However, before their assessments, Malaga's La Rosaleda (Andalusia) and Deportivo La Coruna's Riazor (Galicia) stadiums pulled out of contention. Their withdrawal stems from uncertainties surrounding project funding.

Nou Mestalla and Balaídos Emerge as Potential Replacements

In response, the RFEF hopes that the Nou Mestalla project in Valencia will be accepted as a replacement for one of the withdrawn stadiums. Valencia's initial exclusion as a host city was surprising, and many anticipate it will ultimately be included. The new Valencia CF stadium is projected for completion between 2027 and 2028. Meanwhile, the region of Galicia is advocating for Celta Vigo's Balaídos stadium to also be included, though its acceptance is less assured.

Spain's Current List of Proposed World Cup Stadiums

Spain's current provisional list includes Camp Nou and RCDE Stadium (Barcelona), Metropolitano and Bernabéu (Madrid), La Romareda (Zaragoza), San Mamés (Bilbao), Reale Arena (Donostia-San Sebastián), La Cartuja (Seville), and Estadio Gran Canaria. However, the inclusion of Estadio Gran Canaria faces increased uncertainty after recent FIFA inspections.