FIFA inspectors have warned that Morocco’s bid to host the World Cup in 2026 is ‘high risk’ due to lack of infrastructure in the North African nation.
“The amount of new infrastructure required for the Morocco 2026 bid to become reality cannot be overstated,” the bid evaluation task force said.
The 2026 World Cup is the first tournament Fifa has confirmed will expand from 24 to 32 teams; putting increasing demands on the stadiums and facilities required to stage 80 games.
Morocco has said it needs to spend almost $16 billion on infrastructure for the tournament, including building or renovating all 14 stadiums.
A maximum of 207 national associations will choose who between Morocco and the Joint North American bid of USA, Mexico and Canada will host the 2026 tournament in a public vote on 13 June.