FC Barcelona has officially entered the bidding process to host the prestigious 2029 UEFA Champions League final at the renovated Spotify Camp Nou. Additionally, the club is reportedly making efforts to secure the hosting rights for the 2030 FIFA World Cup final in a significant move that could put the legendary stadium at the forefront of international football.
While Real Madrid is also vying for the honor of hosting the World Cup final at their iconic Santiago Bernabeu, Barcelona may have a competitive advantage. The upcoming 2030 World Cup is set to be jointly hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. FIFA is currently evaluating three primary venues for the final match: the Santiago Bernabeu, Spotify Camp Nou, and Hassan II Stadium in Casablanca.
Recent reports from SPORT suggest that Barcelona’s potential edge lies in its stadium’s capacity and economic viability. After renovations are completed, the Spotify Camp Nou will accommodate 105,000 spectators, surpassing the Bernabeu’s capacity of 84,000. This additional seating could translate into a considerable revenue advantage. In fact, estimates indicate that FIFA could earn over €20 million more in ticket sales if the final takes place at Camp Nou instead of the Bernabeu, reflecting the substantial financial implications of hosting such high-profile events.
The Mayor of Barcelona, Jaume Collboni, has expressed the city’s determination to compete for the World Cup final, citing its numerous attractions for FIFA. Although the Bernabeu is currently seen as the favorite, the Catalan city’s strong economic arguments and footballing heritage bolster its candidacy.
As for Casablanca’s Hassan II Stadium, it appears to be at a disadvantage compared to the Spanish venues. The city’s historical football heritage and urban infrastructure make the Camp Nou and Bernabeu appear more appealing to FIFA, which is keen on showcasing cities with established reputations for hosting major sporting events. The logistical challenges posed by Casablanca’s location, being farther from the city center, further diminish its standing in the eyes of FIFA decision-makers.
With all these factors in play, even though the spotlight currently favors Real Madrid, Barcelona’s aspirations for the World Cup final remain firm. The city and club’s efforts reflect a robust ambition to host international tournaments that could reinforce their historical significance in football.