Valencia is facing a key moment that could decide its role as one of the cities of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, with a decision expected by the end of July 2024. The Supreme Council for Sport (CSD) is currently analysing the documentation submitted by Valencia and is negotiating with Portugal and Morocco to increase the number of Spanish host cities.

Documentation analysis and decision-making process

There are currently 11 Spanish stadiums confirmed to host the 2030 World Cup matches, with Valencia and Vigo likely to join the list if they meet all FIFA requirements and receive approval from Portugal and Morocco. Sources from the CSD told elDiario.es that the working team set up to analyse the various candidates is currently analysing the information provided by Valencia to see if it meets the conditions.

For Valencia, the completion of Nou Mestalla is crucial. Despite the long-standing status quo, Valencia has recently made significant steps that bring the World Cup scenario closer to a more realistic one.

The city government, represented by PP and Vox, is negotiating with the club on the financial terms for the completion of the stadium. The coalition requires financial guarantees from the club for the entire work. Failure to reach an agreement on this issue could force Mayor Maria José Catalá to seek support from other parties or make risky decisions about the future of the stadium.

© Valencia CF

Possible scenarios

However, as time has passed, the positions of the city and Paul Lim have become increasingly disparate. If no agreement is reached, there are three scenarios outlined by the PP and Vox :

• Working with Compromís or the PSPV to reach an agreement
• Risky steps after 3 August, when the club regains rights to the land (ETA act of 2015 will take effect)
• Introduction of a new contractor to the project, which could lead to lengthy litigation.

The decision on Valencia's future as potential host of the 2030 World Cup is therefore closely linked to the political and financial challenges of building a new stadium. A final decision should be made by the end of July, with FIFA approving the final list of hosts in December 2024.

© Valencia CF