With just over four years until the 2030 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Spain, Morocco, and Portugal (with a preliminary set of matches in Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay), tensions are already high—especially in Spain. The final selection of stadiums for the tournament’s group and knockout stages has yet to be determined, and the latest development has added fuel to the fire: La Coruña has officially withdrawn its bid, following earlier withdrawals from Gijón, Murcia, and Málaga.
Spain initially plans to submit nine candidate cities to FIFA: Madrid (Santiago Bernabéu Stadium and Wanda Metropolitano Stadium), Barcelona (Camp Nou and Espanyol’s stadium), Seville (La Cartuja Stadium), Bilbao (San Mamés Stadium), Las Palmas (Estadio Gran Canaria), San Sebastián (Estadio Anoeta), and Zaragoza (La Romareda Stadium).
Valencia and Vigo remain potential candidates, though each faces challenges. Renovation work at Nou Mestalla has reignited Valencia’s bid, making it a strong contender, while BalaÃdos in Vigo may not meet FIFA’s standards despite ongoing upgrades.
The withdrawal of La Coruña, confirmed by Mayor Inés Rey, highlights the complexities behind Spain’s preparations. Rey explained the city’s commitment to long-term development over short-term World Cup incentives, noting that collaboration with Deportivo La Coruña focuses on sustainable upgrades to the Riazor Stadium rather than modifications for the tournament.
FIFA delegates have already begun visiting potential venues, and final approval will depend on strict compliance with infrastructure and operational requirements. Local opposition and logistical concerns add another layer of complexity; for example, San Sebastián residents expressed concerns over overtourism and requested that the city not host matches.
While Morocco and Portugal’s selections are expected to move more smoothly—six stadiums proposed by Morocco and three by Portugal—Spain’s final list could still face months of debate before FIFA gives the green light.