According to a report from AS, the groundwork is already being laid for one of the biggest decisions of the 2030 World Cup: where the final will be played. While most of the football world is still focused
on the 2026 tournament in North America and the final at MetLife Stadium, FIFA insiders are increasingly looking ahead — and Madrid is firmly in the picture.
Per AS, the Santiago Bernabéu is emerging as the preferred venue to host the World Cup final on July 21, 2030. If that plan becomes official, the stadium would host its second World Cup final, nearly five decades after the legendary 1982 showdown.
Influence at the Top of World Football
AS reports that the close working relationship between FIFA president Gianni Infantino and Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez plays a central role in why the Bernabéu is being strongly considered. Their alignment has helped smooth over logistical and regulatory concerns that once complicated Madrid’s candidacy.
FIFA views Spain as a cornerstone of the joint 2030 bid alongside Morocco and Portugal. According to AS, Spain’s leadership in launching the project, its footballing stature, and the number of proposed host cities all weigh heavily in discussions about where the tournament’s most important match should take place.
Host Cities Still Being Trimmed
While the Bernabéu’s position appears strong, AS notes that FIFA will not finalize the tournament format or host city list until after the summer, with definitive announcements expected toward the end of 2026.
The original list of 20 host cities is already shrinking. Málaga’s withdrawal reduced the number to 19, and FIFA’s intention is to limit the final count to no more than 18. This ongoing reduction process adds significance to every remaining venue — particularly those hoping to host major events like the final.
Morocco’s Heavy Investment
AS also highlights Morocco’s aggressive push within the three-nation bid. Despite being the last country to formally join the organizing committee, Morocco has become the most active investor, pouring resources into stadium construction, urban development, and operational infrastructure. The opening of a FIFA-linked office in Rabat underscores how seriously Morocco is treating its role.
Still, when it comes to the final itself, AS reports that FIFA increasingly sees Spain as the project’s center of gravity.
Why the Bernabéu Stands Out
From a practical standpoint, AS explains that earlier concerns over FIFA’s requirement for stadium availability — including the temporary handover of venues months in advance — have largely been resolved. Similar arrangements are expected across host stadiums, reducing friction in Madrid’s case.
The Bernabéu’s transformation into a multi-purpose global venue also strengthens its candidacy. Its ability to host NFL games and other major events has impressed FIFA officials, reinforcing the stadium’s commercial appeal, technological modernization, and operational reliability.
The Metropolitano Remains an Option
Atlético Madrid’s Metropolitano is also mentioned by AS as a stadium capable of hosting an event of this magnitude. However, Atlético’s long-term desire to remain fully committed to the World Cup hosting process still needs confirmation, which currently leaves the Bernabéu with clearer momentum.
