WC 2030: World Cup final in Portugal? Estádio da Luz enters the race

28.10.2025 18:01 source: StadiumDB.com; author: Paulina Skóra

Mundial 2030

Although the 2030 World Cup is still years away, the strategic maneuvering has already begun. One of the most intriguing storylines concerns the venue for the final — and now, Lisbon’s Estádio da Luz could be about to join the race.

A stadium built for the biggest occasions

Benfica presidential candidate Martim Mayer has made it clear: hosting the final would be a historic milestone not only for the club, but for all of Portuguese football. Speaking to Diario AS, Mayer revealed that once the planned renovation of Estádio da Luz is complete, Benfica will be ready to apply for the honor of staging the world’s most prestigious football match.

The renovation plan includes expanding capacity to 83,000 seats. The club is working with CBRE, the same firm involved in the modernization of Camp Nou and the Santiago Bernabéu. Mayer insists the revamped stadium will be more than a technological upgrade — it will be a world-class venue ready to host football’s grandest events.

Estádio Sport Lisboa e Benfica (Estádio da Luz) © Grzegorz Kaliciak

A possible compromise between Spain and Morocco?

Some Portuguese media suggest that such a scenario could also work in FIFA’s favor. With the 2030 World Cup to be co-hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, awarding the final to neutral Portugal could ease potential political or logistical tensions. This isn’t just about size or technology — it’s about atmosphere, Mayer emphasized. A stadium must feel alive, it must be authentic. It’s the fans who give this place its soul. While the idea might seem ambitious — Portugal has never hosted a World Cup final — the country’s football infrastructure is among the most advanced in Europe. With Spain and Morocco already juggling heavy investment schedules, Lisbon could emerge as a logical and symbolic compromise.

UEFA and FIFA officials are reportedly watching the proposal with interest. Portugal offers a strong football culture, reliable organization, and, perhaps most importantly, growing public support. As Mayer himself put it: Da Luz wants the 2030 World Cup final. Dreams exist to be fulfilled — and we’re ready to make it happen.